Metal wood club

ABSTRACT

A golf club head including a body having a face, a sole, a crown, and a skirt joining the face, sole and crown, the body having a center of gravity, wherein the body includes an open end and a terminal end, the terminal end opposite the open end, a weighted insert having a heavy end and a lighter end, the lighter end opposite the heavy end, wherein the cavity is configured to receive the weighted insert through the open end, wherein the cavity is configured to receive the weighted insert through the open end in both a first configuration and a second configuration, and wherein said weighted insert comprises a heavy portion comprising a high density portion and an abutment member.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The current application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/085,888, Metal Wood Club, to Frame et al., filedon Mar. 30, 2016, currently pending, which is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/966,316, Metal Wood Club, to Knutsonet al., filed on Dec. 11, 2015, currently pending, the disclosure ofwhich are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This present technology generally relates to systems, devices, andmethods related to golf clubs, and more specifically to a wood-type golfclub head with improved physical attributes.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED TECHNOLOGY

Golf club heads come in many different forms and makes, such as wood- ormetal-type (including drivers and fairway woods), iron-type (includingwedge-type club heads), utility- or specialty-type, and putter-type.Each of these styles has a prescribed function and make-up. The presentinvention relates primarily to hollow golf club heads, such as wood-typeand utility-type (generally referred to herein as wood-type golf clubs).

Wood-type or metal-type golf club heads generally include a front orstriking face, a crown, a sole and an arcuate skirt including a heel, atoe and a back. The crown and skirt are sometimes referred to as ashell. The front face interfaces with and strikes the golf ball. Aplurality of grooves, sometimes referred to as “score lines,” may beprovided on the face to assist in imparting spin to the ball and fordecorative purposes. The crown is generally configured to have aparticular look to the golfer and to provide structural rigidity for thestriking face. The sole of the golf club is particularly important tothe golf shot because it contacts and interacts with the ground duringthe swing.

The complexities of golf club design are well known. The specificationsfor each component of the club (i.e., the club head, shaft, grip, andsubcomponents thereof) directly impact the performance of the club.Thus, by varying the design specifications, a golf club can be tailoredto have specific performance characteristics.

The design and manufacture of wood-type club heads requires carefulattention to club head construction. Among the many factors that must beconsidered are material selection, material treatment, structuralintegrity and overall geometrical design. Exemplary geometrical designconsiderations include loft, lie, face angle, horizontal face bulge,vertical face roll, face size, center of gravity, sole curvature, andoverall head weight. The interior design of the club head may betailored to achieve particular characteristics, such as by includinghosel or shaft attachment means, perimeter weighting on the face or bodyof the club head, and fillers within hollow club heads. Club heads aretypically formed from stainless steel, aluminum, or titanium and arecast, stamped, as by forming sheet metal with pressure, forged, orformed by a combination of any two or more of these processes.

The club heads may be formed from multiple pieces that are welded orotherwise joined together to form a hollow head, as is often the case ofclub heads designed with inserts, such as soleplates or crown plates.The multi-piece constructions facilitate access to the cavity formedwithin the club head, thereby permitting the attachment of various othercomponents to the head such as internal weights and the club shaft. Thecavity may remain empty, or may be partially or completely filled, suchas with foam. An adhesive may be injected into the club head to providethe correct swing weight and to collect and retain any debris that maybe in the club head. In addition, due to difficulties in manufacturingone-piece club heads to high dimensional tolerances, the use ofmulti-piece constructions allows the manufacture of a club head to atight set of standards.

It is known to make wood-type golf clubs out of metallic materials.These clubs were originally manufactured primarily by casting durablemetals such as stainless steel, aluminum, beryllium copper, etc. into aunitary structure comprising a metal body, face and hosel. As technologyprogressed, it became more desirable to increase the performance of theface of the club, usually by using a titanium material.

Players generally seek a metal wood driver and golf ball combinationthat delivers maximum distance and landing accuracy. The distance a balltravels after impact is dictated by the magnitude and direction of theball's translational velocity and the ball's rotational velocity orspin. Environmental conditions, including atmospheric pressure,humidity, temperature, and wind speed, further influence the ball'sflight. However, these environmental effects are beyond the control ofthe golf equipment manufacturer. Golf ball landing accuracy is driven bya number of factors as well. Some of these factors are attributed toclub head design, such as center of gravity and club face flexibility.

Known methods to enhance the weight distribution of wood-type club headsto help reduce the club from being open upon contact with the ballusually include the addition of weights to the body casting itself orstrategically adding a weight element at some point in the club. Manyefforts have been made to incorporate weight elements into the wood-typeclub head. These weight elements are usually placed at specificlocations, which will have a positive influence on the flight of theball or to overcome a particular golfer's shortcomings.

The sole of the golf club is particularly important to the golf shotbecause it contacts and interacts with the ground during the golf shot.There are many sole configurations to optimize the performance of theclub. Typically, the sole of the club is slightly curved such that whenthe club head is placed on the ground, the leading edge is located abovethe ground. The curvature toward the front of the club generallyprovides bounce. Bounce assists in preventing the club from digging intothe ground and substantially slowing club head speed. The curvaturetoward the trailing edge generally prevents the club head from gettingcaught on the ground during the back swing.

The present invention is directed to an improved weighting system forwood-type golf clubs that increases the club's playability.

SUMMARY

The systems, methods, and devices described herein have innovativeaspects, no single one of which is indispensable or solely responsiblefor their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of theclaims, some of the advantageous features will now be summarized.

A non-limiting embodiment of the present technology includes a golf clubhead comprising a body having a face, a sole, a crown, and a skirtjoining the face, sole and crown, the body having a center of gravity;the body having a coordinate system with an x-axis located horizontal tothe club face, a y-axis located vertical to the club face, and a z-axislocated through the club face, wherein the body comprises a cavity;wherein the cavity comprises an open end and a terminal end, theterminal end opposite the open end; a weighted insert, the weightedinsert comprising a heavy end and a lighter end, the lighter endopposite the heavy end; wherein the weighted insert comprises alongitudinal insert axis along a center of the weighted insert andpassing through the heavy end and the lighter end; wherein the cavitycomprises a longitudinal cavity axis along a center of the cavity andpassing through the open end and the terminal end; wherein the cavity isconfigured to receive the weighted insert through the open end in both afirst configuration and a second configuration; wherein the firstconfiguration comprises the heavy end of the weighted insert adjacentthe terminal end of the cavity; wherein the second configurationcomprises the lighter end of the weighted insert adjacent the terminalend of the cavity; wherein the weighted insert comprises: a heavy memberlocated at the heavy end of the weighted insert; a tube member affixedto the heavy member; a lightweight member affixed to the tube member,opposite the heavy member; and an insert locking member configured toengage the golf club head and lock the weighted insert in the cavity viarotation of the insert locking member; wherein the heavy membercomprises a high density portion and an abutment member, the highdensity portion comprises a first material, the abutment membercomprises a second material, wherein a density of the first material isgreater than a density of the second material; wherein the weightedinsert and the golf club head are configured such that the high densityportion does not contact the golf club head when the weighted insert islocked in the cavity; wherein rotation of the insert locking membercompresses the weighted insert between the insert locking member and theterminal end of the cavity, locking the weighted insert in the cavity;and wherein the second material has greater damping properties than thefirst material.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology thesecond material has a lower coefficient of friction when in contact withthe cavity of the golf club head than the first material when in contactwith the cavity of the golf club head.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology theweighted insert is compressible along the longitudinal insert axis.

A non-limiting embodiment of the present technology includes A golf clubhead comprising: a body having a face, a sole, a crown, and a skirtjoining the face, sole and crown, the body having a center of gravity;the body having a coordinate system with an x-axis located horizontal tothe club face, a y-axis located vertical to the club face, and a z-axislocated through the club face, wherein the body comprises a cavity;wherein the cavity comprises an open end and a terminal end, theterminal end opposite the open end; a weighted insert, the weightedinsert comprising a heavy end and a lighter end, the lighter endopposite the heavy end; wherein the weighted insert comprises alongitudinal insert axis along a center of the weighted insert andpassing through the heavy end and the lighter end; wherein the cavitycomprises a longitudinal cavity axis along a center of the cavity andpassing through the open end and the terminal end; wherein the cavity isconfigured to receive the weighted insert through the open end in both afirst configuration and a second configuration; wherein the firstconfiguration comprises the heavy end of the weighted insert adjacentthe terminal end of the cavity; wherein the second configurationcomprises the lighter end of the weighted insert adjacent the terminalend of the cavity; wherein the weighted insert comprises: a heavy memberlocated at the heavy end of the weighted insert; a tube member affixedto the heavy member; a lightweight member affixed to the tube member,opposite the heavy member; and an insert locking member configured toengage the golf club head and lock the weighted insert in the cavity viarotation of the insert locking member; and wherein the heavy membercomprises a high density portion and an abutment member, the highdensity portion comprises a first material, the abutment membercomprises a second material, wherein a density of the first material isgreater than a density of the second material.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology theweighted insert and the golf club head are configured such that the highdensity portion does not contact the golf club head when the weightedinsert is locked in the cavity.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology thesecond material has a lower coefficient of friction when in contact withthe cavity of the golf club head than the first material when in contactwith the cavity of the golf club head.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology thesecond material has greater damping properties than the first material.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology theheavy member comprises an extra high density insert, the extra highdensity insert having a higher density than the high density portion.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technologyrotation of the insert locking member compresses the weighted insertbetween the insert locking member and the terminal end of the cavity,locking the weighted insert in the cavity.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology thesecond material is a polymeric material.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology theweighted insert is compressible along the longitudinal insert axis.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technologyrotation of the insert locking member forces the insert locking membertowards the terminal end of the cavity, deforming the weighted insert inlength along the longitudinal insert axis.

A non-limiting embodiment of the present technology includes a golf clubhead comprising: a body having a face, a sole, a crown, and a skirtjoining the face, sole and crown, the body having a center of gravity;the body having a coordinate system with an x-axis located horizontal tothe club face, a y-axis located vertical to the club face, and a z-axislocated through the club face, wherein the body comprises a cavity;wherein the cavity comprises an open end and a terminal end, theterminal end opposite the open end; a weighted insert, the weightedinsert comprising a heavy end and a lighter end, the lighter endopposite the heavy end; wherein the weighted insert comprises alongitudinal insert axis along a center of the weighted insert andpassing through the heavy end and the lighter end; wherein the cavitycomprises a longitudinal cavity axis along a center of the cavity andpassing through the open end and the terminal end; wherein the cavity isconfigured to receive the weighted insert through the open end in both afirst configuration and a second configuration; wherein the firstconfiguration comprises the heavy end of the weighted insert adjacentthe terminal end of the cavity; wherein the second configurationcomprises the lighter end of the weighted insert adjacent the terminalend of the cavity; and wherein the weighted insert is compressible alongthe longitudinal insert axis.

An additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology includesan insert locking member configured to engage the golf club head andlock the weighted insert in the cavity via rotation of the insertlocking member, wherein rotation of the insert locking member forces theinsert locking member towards the terminal end of the cavity, deformingthe weighted insert in length along the longitudinal insert axis.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology theweighted insert comprises a first portion at one end of the weightedinsert and a second portion at an opposite end of the weighted insert,the first portion and the second portion connected by a third portion,wherein the second portion is slideably affixed to the third portion,allowing the weighted insert to deform in length when compressed.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology thesecond portion comprises an end cap affixed to a plunging member andwherein the third portion comprises a retaining member, wherein thesecond plunging member is configured to slide along the longitudinalinsert axis through the retaining member.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology theweight insert further comprises a spring forcing the second portion awayfrom the first portion.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technologywherein the plunging member comprises a slide stop configured to engagethe retaining member and limit extension of the second portion away fromthe first portion.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technologywherein the spring is located between the end cap and third portion.

In an additional non-limiting embodiment of the present technology,wherein the weighted insert comprises a heavy member located at theheavy end of the weighted insert, a tube member affixed to the heavymember, and a lightweight member affixed to the tube member, oppositethe heavy member; and wherein the heavy member comprises a high densityportion and an abutment member, the high density portion comprises afirst material, the abutment member comprises a second material, whereina density of the first material is greater than a density of the secondmaterial.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings form a part of the specification and are to beread in conjunction therewith. The illustrated embodiments, however, aremerely examples and are not intended to be limiting. Like referencenumbers and designations in the various drawings indicate like elements.

Preferred features of the present invention are disclosed in theaccompanying drawings, wherein similar reference characters denotesimilar elements throughout the several views, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a club head of thepresent invention;

FIG. 2 is bottom plan view of an embodiment of a club head of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3A is a front plan view of an embodiment of a club head accordingto FIG. 1 at impact with a golf ball;

FIG. 3B is a front plan view of an embodiment of a club head accordingto FIG. 1 at address;

FIG. 4A is bottom plan view of an embodiment of a club head of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the club head of FIG. 4 taken alongline 3B-3B in FIG. 4;

FIG. 4C is a cross-sectional view of the club head of FIG. 4 taken alongline 4C-4C in FIG. 4;

FIG. 4D is a cross-sectional view of the club head of FIG. 4 taken alongline 4D-4D in FIG. 4;

FIG. 5 is a back view of the club head of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a heel side view of the club head of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7A is a bottom plan view of a club head with the inventive sole ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 7B is a cross sectional view of the club head of FIG. 7A takenalong line 7B-7B;

FIG. 8 is a bottom plan view of another alternative embodiment of a clubhead of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of a club headaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 10A is a front plan view of a club head according to an embodimentof the club head of FIG. 9;

FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view of the club head of FIG. 10A, takenalong lines 10B-10B;

FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the club head according to an embodimentof FIG. 9;

FIG. 12A is a front plan view of a club head according to an embodimentof the club head of FIG. 9;

FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of the club head of FIG. 12A, takenalong lines 12B-12B;

FIG. 13 is a back perspective cut-out view of an embodiment of a clubhead according to FIG. 9;

FIG. 14 is a back view of the club head of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a weight tube according to theembodiment of the FIG. 13;

FIG. 16 is a back perspective cut-out view of another embodiment of aclub head according to FIG. 9;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a weight tube according to theembodiment of the FIG. 17;

FIG. 18 is a back perspective cut-out view of another embodiment of aclub head according to FIG. 9;

FIG. 19 is a bottom plan view of another embodiment of a club headaccording to FIG. 9;

FIG. 20 is a front perspective cut-out view of another embodiment of aclub head according to FIG. 9;

FIG. 21 is a graph depicting the movement of the center of gravity alongthe y-axis and z-axis according to the embodiment of FIG. 13;

FIG. 22 is a graph depicting the movement of the center of gravity alongthe y-axis and x-axis according to the embodiment of FIG. 13;

FIG. 23 is a graph depicting the movement of the center of gravity alongthe y-axis and z-axis according to the embodiment of FIG. 16;

FIG. 24 is a graph depicting the movement of the center of gravity alongthe y-axis and x-axis according to the embodiment of FIG. 16;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a golf club head in accordance with analternative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 26 is an exploded sole view of a golf club head according to theembodiment of FIG. 25;

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head according to theembodiment of FIG. 25, taken across cross-sectional line O;

FIG. 28 is an exploded sole view of a golf club head according to afurther alternative embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a golf club head in accordance with analternative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 30 is an exploded sole view of a golf club head according to theembodiment of FIG. 29;

FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of a golf club head according to theembodiment of FIG. 30, taken across cross-sectional line O;

FIG. 32 is an exploded sole view of a golf club head according to afurther alternative embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 33 is an exploded sole view of a golf club head according to afurther alternative embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 34 is an exploded view of a weighted insert in accordance with analternative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 35 is an exploded view of a weighted insert in accordance withanother alternative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of a weighted insert in accordancewith an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 37 is an exploded view of a weighted insert in accordance withanother alternative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 38 is an exploded view of a weighted insert in accordance withanother alternative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 39 is an exploded view of a golf club head having a weighted insertin accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 40 is an exploded view of a weighted insert shown in FIG. 39;

FIG. 41 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a cap of the weightedinsert in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 42 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a weighted insert inaccordance with a further alternative embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 43 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a weighted insert inaccordance with another alternative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 44 of the accompanying drawings shows a perspective view of aweighted insert in accordance with another further alternativeembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 45 illustrates a cross section of a golf club head including theweighted insert of FIG. 44;

FIG. 46 illustrates a perspective view of the weighted insert of FIG.44;

FIG. 47 illustrates a perspective view of a head locking member of thegolf club head of FIG. 45;

FIG. 48 illustrates a perspective view of a head locking member of thegolf club head of FIG. 45;

FIG. 49 of the accompanying drawings shows a perspective view of aweighted insert in accordance with another further alternativeembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 50 illustrates a cross section of a golf club head including theweighted insert of FIG. 49;

FIG. 51 illustrates a perspective view of the weighted insert of FIG. 49including a spring and centering member;

FIG. 52 illustrates a perspective view of the spring and centeringmember of FIG. 51;

FIG. 53 illustrates a perspective view of a spring;

FIG. 54 illustrates a perspective view of a low friction member as wellas the spring of FIG. 54;

FIG. 55 of the accompanying drawings shows a perspective view of aninsert retaining member;

FIG. 56 illustrates a perspective view of a weighted insert with asliding insert locking member;

FIG. 57 illustrates a perspective view of a sliding insert lockingmember;

FIG. 58 illustrates a perspective view of the weighted insert of FIG.56;

FIG. 59 illustrates a cross sectional view of the weighted insert ofFIG. 56 installed in the insert retaining member of FIG. 55;

FIG. 60 illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment ofthe weighted insert and sliding insert locking member of FIG. 56;

FIG. 61 illustrates a cross sectional view of the weighted insert andsliding insert locking member of FIG. 60;

FIG. 62 illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of aweighted insert;

FIG. 63 illustrates a perspective view of components of the weightedinsert of FIG. 62;

FIG. 64 illustrates a cross sectional view of the weighted insert ofFIG. 62;

FIG. 65 illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of aweighted insert;

FIG. 66 illustrates a cross sectional view of the weighted insert ofFIG. 65;

FIG. 67 illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of aweighted insert;

FIG. 68 illustrates a perspective view of an insert retaining memberconfigured to receive the weigh insert of FIG. 67;

FIG. 69 is an end view of the insert retaining member of FIG. 68;

FIG. 70 is a cross sectional view of the weighted insert of FIG. 67installed in the insert retaining member of FIG. 68;

FIG. 71 illustrates an additional embodiment of a weighted insert;

FIG. 72 illustrates a perspective view of an insert retaining memberconfigured to receive the weighted insert of FIG. 71;

FIG. 73 illustrates an additional embodiment of an insert retainingmember;

FIG. 74 illustrates an additional embodiment of a weighted insertconfigured to reside in the insert retaining member of FIG. 73;

FIG. 75 illustrates a cross sectional view of the insert retainingmember and weighted insert of FIGS. 73 and 74;

FIG. 76 illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of aweighted insert;

FIG. 77 illustrates a cross sectional view of the weighted insert ofFIG. 76;

FIG. 78 illustrates a cross section of a golf club head including aweighted insert;

FIG. 79 illustrates an enlarged detail view of the opening of the cavityof the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 78;

FIG. 80A illustrates a perspective view of the insert locking member ofFIG. 78;

FIG. 80B illustrates an additional perspective view of the insertlocking member of FIG. 78;

FIG. 81 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a weighted insertincluding an insert locking member;

FIG. 82 illustrates a perspective view of the weighted insert of FIG. 81further including a spring and a low friction member;

FIG. 83 illustrates the enlarged detail view of the opening of thecavity of the golf club head illustrated in FIG. 78 further including acircumferential insert;

FIG. 84 illustrates a perspective view of the circumferential insert ofFIG. 83;

FIG. 85 illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of aweighted insert;

FIG. 86A-86E illustrate cross sectional views of additional embodimentsof weighted inserts;

FIG. 87 illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of aweighted insert;

FIG. 88 illustrates a front view of the weighted insert of FIG. 87;

FIG. 89A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the weighted insert ofFIG. 87;

FIG. 89B illustrates a cross-sectional view of an additional embodimentof a weighted insert;

FIG. 89C illustrates a cross-sectional view of an additional embodimentof a weighted insert;

FIG. 89D illustrates a cross-sectional view of an additional embodimentof a weighted insert;

FIG. 90 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the lightweight member ofthe weighted insert of FIG. 89A;

FIG. 91 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the heavy member of theweighted insert of FIG. 89A;

FIG. 91B illustrates a cross-sectional view of an additional embodimentof the heavy member of the weighted insert of FIG. 89A;

FIG. 91C illustrates a cross-sectional view of an additional embodimentof the heavy member of the weighted insert of FIG. 89A;

FIG. 92 illustrates a front view of an additional embodiment of aweighted insert;

FIG. 93 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the weighted insert ofFIG. 92;

FIG. 94 illustrates an exploded view of the weighted insert of FIG. 92;

FIG. 95 illustrates an exploded cross-sectional view of the weightedinsert of FIG. 92.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings, which form a part of the present disclosure. Theillustrative embodiments described in the detailed description,drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments maybe utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from thespirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will bereadily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, asgenerally described herein, and illustrated in the Figures, can bearranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety ofdifferent configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated andform part of this disclosure. For example, a system or device may beimplemented or a method may be practiced using any number of the aspectsset forth herein. In addition, such a system or device may beimplemented or such a method may be practiced using other structure,functionality, or structure and functionality in addition to or otherthan one or more of the aspects set forth herein. Alterations andfurther modifications of inventive features illustrated herein, andadditional applications of the principles of the inventions asillustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant artand having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered withinthe scope of the invention.

Other than in the operating examples, or unless otherwise expresslyspecified, all of the numerical ranges, amounts, values and percentagessuch as those for amounts of materials, moments of inertias, center ofgravity locations, loft and draft angles, and others in the followingportion of the specification may be read as if prefaced by the word“about” even though the term “about” may not expressly appear with thevalue, amount, or range. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary,the numerical parameters set forth in the following specification andattached claims are approximations that may vary depending upon thedesired properties sought to be obtained by the present invention. Atthe very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of thedoctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numericalparameter should at least be construed in light of the number ofreported significant digits and by applying ordinary roundingtechniques.

Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forththe broad scope of the invention are approximations, the numericalvalues set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely aspossible. Any numerical value, however, inherently contains certainerrors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in theirrespective testing measurements. Furthermore, when numerical ranges ofvarying scope are set forth herein, it is contemplated that anycombination of these values inclusive of the recited values may be used.

In describing the present technology, the following terminology may havebeen used: The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include pluralreferents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, forexample, reference to an item includes reference to one or more items.The term “plurality” refers to two or more of an item. The term“substantially” means that the recited characteristic, parameter, orvalue need not be achieved exactly, but that deviations or variations,including for example, tolerances, measurement error, measurementaccuracy limitations and other factors known to those of skill in theart, may occur in amounts that do not preclude the effect thecharacteristic was intended to provide. A plurality of items may bepresented in a common list for convenience. However, these lists shouldbe construed as though each member of the list is individuallyidentified as a separate and unique member. Thus, no individual memberof such list should be construed as a de facto equivalent of any othermember of the same lists solely based on their presentation in a commongroup without indications to the contrary. Furthermore, where the terms“and” and “or” are used in conjunction with a list of items, they are tobe interpreted broadly, in that any one or more of the listed items maybe used alone or in combination with other listed items. The term“alternatively” refers to a selection of one of two or morealternatives, and is not intended to limit the selection of only thoselisted alternative or to only one of the listed alternatives at a time,unless the context clearly indicated otherwise.

Features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent fromthe following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction withthe accompanying drawings. After considering this discussion, andparticularly after reading the section entitled “Detailed Description”one will understand how the illustrated features serve to explaincertain principles of the present disclosure

FIG. 1 shows a golf club head 10 of the present invention. Club head 10includes a body 12 having a strike face 14, a sole 16, a crown 18, askirt 20 and a hosel 22. The body defines a hollow interior volume 24(See FIGS. 4B-4D). Foam or other material may partially or completelyfill the interior volume. Weights may be included within the interiorvolume. The face may be provided with grooves or score lines of varyingdesign. The club head has a toe 26 and a heel 28.

A golf club shaft (not shown) is attached at hosel 22 and is disposedalong a shaft axis A-A. The hosel 22 may extend to the bottom of theclub head 10, may terminate at a location between the sole and crownportions 16 and 18 of the head 10, or the hosel 22 may terminate flushwith the crown portion 26.

It is recommended that the inner volume 24 have a volume greater than125 cubic centimeters, and more preferably greater than 175 cubiccentimeters. Preferably, the mass of the inventive club head 10 isgreater than 150 grams, but less than 220 grams; although the club headmay have any suitable weight. The body 12 may be formed of sheets weldedtogether or cast, preferably from steel, aluminum or titanium or anyother suitable material or combination thereof.

The strike face 14 may be made by milling, casting, forging or stampingand forming. The face 14 may be made of any suitable material, includingtitanium, titanium alloy, carbon steel, stainless steel, berylliumcopper, and other metals or composites. The face 14 may have anysuitable thickness, and may be uniform or varied. As will beappreciated, the face 14 may be connected to the body 12 by any suitablemeans, including bonding and welding. Alternatively, the body 12 andface 14 may be cast simultaneously forming a homogeneous shell andeliminating the need to bond or otherwise permanently secure a separateface 14 to the body 12. Alternatively, the sole 16 or crown 18 may beformed separately and fitted to the remainder of the body 12 as is knownto those of skill in the art.

The sole 16 preferably has a complex shape that accomplishes twoobjectives. The first objective is to provide a surface for the clubhead 10 to sit on in the address position that squares the face 14 tothe target. The second objective is to provide a sole shape that givesmore clearance to the ground at impact than would be available in a clubhead with a conventional sole. In order to achieve the first objective,an address portion or zero degree bounce portion 30 is provided. Thisportion is a sufficient area on the sole 16 on which the club head 10may rest when placed at the address position by a golfer. The zerodegree bounce portion 30 may be a flat portion provided on the sole 16.The zero degree bounce portion 30 may be directly centered behind theface 16 or, as illustrated, may be provided more toward the heel 28. Asillustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the sole 16 has a zero degree bounceportion 30, such that at address the club head 10 rests at this pointand the face 14 is square to the target. The zero degree bounce portion30 enables the club head 10 to sit just as a conventional club headwithout a sole having a complex shape. Thus, the complex sole of theinventive club head 10 does not adversely affect the way the club headsits at address.

In order to achieve the second objective, a portion of the sole 16 isrelieved to give it a multi-relief surface 32 with a negative bounce.Preferably, a negative bounce portion 34 is provided on the sole 16 in acenter portion that is spaced from the face 14 of the club head 10.Thus, the club head 10 has two areas of bounce. As illustrated in FIGS.3A and 3B, the impact position Ip of the club head 10 is different thanan address position Ap because the dynamics of the golf swing cause theshaft to flex at impact thereby moving the position of the club head 10.FIG. 3B illustrates the club head at address where the face is square tothe target, the shaft axis A-A creates an angle with the ground G calledthe shaft angle □a. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, during impact, the clubhead is rotated a few degrees upright, and the shaft axis A-A creates adifferent angle with the ground G called shaft angle □i.

It will be appreciated that in one embodiment the toe 26 may be up atleast 5 degrees at a first measurement, for example when the club head10 sits at address, such that the face 14 measures square. At a secondmeasurement, for example during impact with a golf ball, taken at acentered position the face 14 measures differently than the firstmeasurement. For example, the face 14 may measure at least two degreesmore open at the second measurement than the first measurement, or atleast two degrees open at the second measurement than the firstmeasurement. The centered position may comprise the negative bounceportion 34, which may be a substantially flat surface. When the firstmeasurement occurs at the address position, the shaft angle □apreferably measures about 55 to 45 degrees. When the second measurementoccurs at impact of the club head 10 with a golf ball, the shaft angle□i measures about 55 degrees to 60 degrees.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the sole 16 features a multi-reliefsurface 32 to provide greater ground clearance at the trailing edge 36of the sole 16 to minimize turf resistance. With this construction, theground/sole contact point remains forward toward the leading edge 38 ofthe strike face 14. Maintaining a forward ground/sole contact pointimproves directional control and ball flight, by reducing the potentialof the club head 10 to bounce or skip onto the ball. This isparticularly true of players that play the ball forward in their stance,or who sweep the ball from the turf with a shallow angle of attack.Preferably, the multi-relief surface 32 sole features the negativebounce portion 32 and a cutaway portion 40.

The negative bounce portion 34 may have any desired overall shape;preferably the negative bounce portion 34 has a triangular shape asshown in FIGS. 1 and 2. FIGS. 4A-4D illustrates the negative bounceportion 34 and cutaway portion 40 in the sole 16. Cross-sectional viewsillustrated in FIGS. 4B and 4D show cutaway portion 40 in comparisonwith the regular surface 42 of a conventional club head sole. FIG. 4Billustrates the cross-sectional view of the center section of the clubhead 10 with the negative bounce portion 34 and cutaway portion 40 incomparison with the regular surface of a conventional club head sole 42.

The cutaway portion 40 extends from the negative bounce portion 34 tothe trailing edge 36 of to the club head 10. As illustrated in FIGS.4B-D, the cutaway portion 40 continues and may gradually increase thenegative surface from the plane S running along the bottom of the sole.Preferably, the cutaway portion 40 has a depth dcp of about 0.05 to 0.5inch from the regular surface of a conventional club head sole 42; thisdepth may or may not be constant. FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate the back 44and heel 28 of the club head. The full extent of the cutaway portion 40can be envisioned.

FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate the sole 16 of the club head 10 and across-sectional view through line 7B-7B which illustrates themulti-relief surface 32 of the sole 16. The negative bounce portion 34is spaced a distance D1 from the strike face, where D1 is preferablyabout 0.1 to 1.0 inch. More preferably, D1 is about 0.35 to 0.65 inchfrom the strike face 14 of the club head 10. The distance D1 may bedifferent for different club heads as it may depend on the faceprogression and the loft of the club head. As illustrated, the negativebounce portion 34 comprises a surface having an angle □ from a plane Srunning along the bottom of the sole 16 parallel to the z-axis of acoordinate system running through the club head. The negative bounceportion 34 comprises about a negative 0.5 to a negative 4.0 degreesurface, such that the angle □ is about negative 0.5 to 4.0 degrees fromthe plane S. Preferably, the negative bounce portion 34 comprises abouta negative 2.0 degree surface. It will be appreciated that the negativebounce portion 34 may have a constant angle or may have an angle thatvaries toward the back of the sole. The negative bounce portion 34 mayhave locations with multiple radii.

As illustrated, the multi-relief surface 32 includes both the negativebounce portion 34 and the cutaway portion 40 and these form a triangularshape. The triangular shape forms an angle □, angle □ is preferablyabout 35 to 50 degrees, and more preferably about 38 to 44 degrees. Thenegative bounce portion 34 and cutaway portion 40 have a length L,length L is preferably about 1 to 5 inches, and more preferably about 2to 4 inches.

FIG. 8 shows an alternative embodiment for the sole 16. The club head 46features a multi-relief sole 32 as described above. The multi-reliefsole features the negative bounce portion 34 and the cutaway portion 40.It will be appreciated that the negative bounce portion 34 and cutawayportion 40 may have any suitable shape.

In general, to increase the sweet spot, the center of gravity of theclub head is moved toward the bottom and back of the club head. Thispermits an average golfer to launch the ball up in the air faster andhit the ball farther. In addition, the moment of inertia of the clubhead is increased to minimize the distance and accuracy penaltiesassociated with off-center hits. In order to move the weight down andback without increasing the overall weight of the club head, material ormass is generally taken from one area of the club head and moved toanother. Materials can be taken from the face of the club, creating athin club face, the crown and/or sole and placed toward the back of theclub.

FIG. 9 illustrates a top of a club head 50 according to anotherembodiment of the present invention. Club head 50 includes a body 52having a strike face 54, a sole 56 (see FIGS. 10A and 10B), a crown 58,a skirt 60 and a hosel 62. The body defines a hollow interior volume 64(See FIGS. 10B and 12B). The face may be provided with grooves or scorelines of varying design. The club head has a toe 66 and a heel 68.

FIG. 9 illustrates the center of gravity (c.g.) along the x-axis andz-axis. In order to improve playability of the club head 50 it isdesired to be able to move the c.g. within the club head 50 to a moreoptimal position. Preferably, the club head 50 features a weight system70 (see FIGS. 10A-10B and 12A-12B) to move the c.g. within the club head50 to a more optimal position. Preferably, the c.g. is movable within a6 mm distance along the z-axis in comparison to a club head without theweight system. More preferably, the c.g. is movable within a 4 mmdistance along the z-axis. The c.g. may be movable within a 6 mmdistance along the x-axis in comparison to a club head without theweight system, more preferably within a 2 mm distance, and still morepreferably within a 0.5 mm distance. Additionally, the c.g. is moveablewithin a 6 mm distance along the y-axis in comparison to a club headwithout the weight system (See FIGS. 10A-10B and 12A-12B). Preferablythe c.g. is moveable within a 2 mm distance along the y-axis.

The c.g. adjustability may not substantially affect the dynamic loft ofthe club head. For example, for a 3 mm front-back c.g. shift the dynamicloft changes about 0.4 degrees. When the c.g. is moved back, thebackspin may increase, for example between 100 and 300 rpm per 3 mm ofc.g. movement toward the rear of the club head.

FIG. 10A illustrates the front face 54 of the club head showing thex-axis and the y-axis. FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view taken alonglines 10B-10B of FIG. 10A. FIG. 10B depicts the inside of the club headfeaturing a weight system 70 according to the invention, and the c.g.may be moved along the z axis and y axis.

FIG. 10B depicts the weight system 70 as a tube 72 placed within theclub head 50 within a plane formed by the y-axis and z-axis to adjustthe c.g. of the club head. As illustrated in FIG. 11, it will beappreciated that more than one tube 72 may be provided within the clubhead 50. As illustrated in FIG. 10B, the weight system 70 features atube 72 with a weight 74 at one end 76 of the tube 72. As shown in FIG.10B, the weight 74 is placed the back of the club head 50 to move thec.g. to a desired location for desirable ball flight. When the weight 74is located at a back of the club head 50, a shot hit off the club head50 has increased backspin and a higher launch angle resulting in asofter landing. In an alternative embodiment, it will be appreciatedthat the tube 72 may feature multiple inserts varying in weight forplacement within the tube 72 to move the c.g. of the club head 50 to adesired location.

As illustrated, the tube 72 is preferably provided at an angle withinthe club head 50. The tube 72 is angled downward toward the face 54 ofthe club head 50, such that the tube 72 is provided within the planeformed by the z-axis and y-axis. The tube 72 may be angled by an angle□, where □ is at least 1 degree from the plane W formed by the z axisand x axis. Preferably, the tube is angled downward toward the face 54by at least 3 degrees from the plane W formed by the z-axis and x-axis.More preferably, the tube 72 is angled downward toward the face of theclub head 50 by about 3 to 7 degrees from the plane W formed by thez-axis and x-axis. It will be appreciated that although the tube 72 isdescribed herein as being provided within a plane formed by the y-axisand z-axis, the tube 72 may be offset in either direction from thatplane by any desired amount.

Now referring to FIG. 12A-12B, it will be appreciated that the tube 72may be flipped within the club head 50, such that the weight 74 isprovided at the other end 76 of the club head 50, closer to the face 54,to move the c.g. to a different location for desirable ball flight. Whenthe weight 74 is located at a front of the club head 50 a shot hit offthe club head 50 has less backspin and a lower trajectory resulting in ashallower landing for increased distance. It will be appreciated thatthe tube 72 itself may be able to be inserted in the club head with theweight 74 in either direction, or that different tubes 72 may beselectable with the weight 74 at the desired end and then provided inthe club head.

It will be appreciated that a club having the weight system 70, such asthe tube 72 and weight 74, may also include the multi-relief surface 32on the sole 56 as described above. For example, in FIGS. 10B and 12B thesole 56 may feature a multi-relief surface 32 with a negative bounceportion 34 and a cutaway portion 40 as described above. It will also beappreciated that the angle □ of the tube may be substantially parallelto the multi-relief surface 32.

FIG. 13 illustrates how the tube 72 may be inserted into the club head50. A sheath 78 extending from a block 79 in the club head 50 receivesthe tube 72 with the weight 74, and a fastener 80 locks the tube 72 inplace within the club head 50. The tube 72 is fastened to the outside ofthe club head 50 substantially flush with an outer surface 82 of theclub head, as illustrated in FIG. 14.

FIG. 15 illustrates the tube 72 according to the embodiment of FIG. 13.The weight 74 is provided at an end 76 of the tube 72. It will beappreciated that the tube 72 and weight 74 may be joined by threadedengagement, epoxy, mechanical lock or other joining method. The weight74 may comprise tungsten or any other suitable material. The weight 74has a mass of about 10 to 25 grams. The combined mass of the tube 72 andweight 74 is about 20 to 40 grams. Preferably, the tube 72 comprisesaluminum, although any other suitable material may be used.

It is envisioned that the orientation of the tube 72 may be set duringmanufacture, may be modified by the user, or may be modifiable by themanufacturer or a designated fitting location. The tube 72 has adiameter td of about 0.3 to 0.5 inch and a length t1 of about 2 to 3inches. It will be appreciated that more than one tube 72 could beprovided in the club head 50 at any one time as illustrated in FIG. 11,or that multiple tubes 72 with a different mass may be provided to theuser or fitting location.

FIG. 16 illustrates an alternative embodiment for placement of the tube72 within the club head 50. In this embodiment, the tube 72 has threads84 on both ends 86 and 88 that interlock in threaded engagement to themating threads 90 on a block 92 inside the club head adjacent the face54 and threads 94 on a block 96 adjacent the skirt 60 of the club head50. The tube 72 is fastened to the inside of the club head 50 adjacentthe face 54. It is envisioned that the orientation of the tube 72 may beset during manufacture, may be modified by the user, or may bemodifiable by the manufacturer or a designated fitting location.

FIG. 17 illustrates the tube 72 of the embodiment of FIG. 16 showing thedual threaded ends 86 and 88 of the tube that may be inserted in eitherdirection into the club head 50 and threadedly received adjacent theface 54. The tube 72 has a diameter td and a length t1 as describedabove and the weight 74 and tube 72 have a similar mass as describedabove. The exterior of the tube 72 would align substantially flush withthe outer surface 82 of the club head 50.

FIG. 18 shows an alternative embodiment for the weight system 70 where aweight 98 may be slid along a pipe 100 provided in the club head 50. Theexterior surface 102 of the sole 56 of the club head 50 may feature amechanism 104 to move the weight 98 along the pipe 100 to the desiredlocation to move the c.g. for the desired ball flight as describedabove. Alternatively, the position of the weight 98 on the pipe 100 maybe set during manufacture of the club head.

FIG. 19 features another alternative embodiment for the weight system70. This embodiment features two or more cavities 106 in the sole 56 ofthe club head 50 for receiving inserts 108. The cavities 106 may beplaced in any desired location on the club head 50. As illustrated, thethree cavities 106 are provided along an axis O offset from the x-axis.The cavities 106 may be aligned parallel to the x-axis or may be offsetin either direction. The cavities 106 may be provided on an axis Ooffset from the x-axis by 0 to 90 degrees in either direction. The backportion 110 of the club head may feature deeper cavities 106 to mimicthe angle of the tube 72 described above relative to the plane formed bythe z-axis and x-axis. The inserts 108 may have different mass and maybe placed in the different cavities 106 to move the c.g. to a desiredlocation. The inserts 108 may be movable by the user, or they may be setat the time of manufacture or modifiable in a fitting environment.

FIG. 20 illustrates yet another alternative embodiment of the weightingsystem 70 for moving the center of gravity along the y-axis. Asillustrated, the club head 50 features a vertical cavity 112 extendingfrom the sole 56 into the hollow volume 64 of the club head. The cavity112 may be placed in any desired location in the sole 56, for examplecentered along the width of the face 54 and located more toward the backof the club head 50, as illustrated. A weight 114 is made to fit withinthe cavity 112, such that it mates securely within the cavity 112. Itwill be appreciated that the weight 114 may be secured in the cavity inany suitable manner, including threaded engagement, epoxy, mechanicallock, or other joining method. As illustrated, the cavity 112 iscylindrical and the weight 114 is a corresponding cylindrical plug,although it will be appreciated that the weight 114 and mating cavity112 may be any suitable shape and size. The weight 114 features a heavyend 116 and a lighter end 118. The heavy or lighter end 116 and 118 maybe placed closer to the sole 56 to move the c.g. to the desired locationalong the y-axis. It is envisioned that the orientation of theorientation of the weight 114 may be set during manufacture, may bemodified by the user, or may be modifiable by the manufacturer or adesignated fitting location. This embodiment may assist in isolatingjust one attribute, moving the c.g. along the y-axis, thereby makingclub fitting more straight forward.

As illustrated in FIG. 21, the movement of the c.g. is illustrated basedon the construction of FIG. 13. It illustrates the movement of the c.g.along the y-axis and z-axis between a normal Titleist 904F fairway woodwithout a weight system, a club head 50 with the weight system 70 ofFIG. 13 having the weight 74 in the back of the club head 50, and a clubhead 50 with the weight system 70 of FIG. 13 having the weight 74 in thefront of the club head 50. FIG. 21 illustrates the relative position ofthe c.g. along the y-axis and z-axis for these various club heads.

As illustrated in FIG. 22, the movement of the c.g. is illustrated basedon the construction of FIG. 13. It illustrates the movement of the c.g.along the y-axis and x-axis between a normal Titleist 904F fairway woodwithout a weight system, a club head 50 with the weight system 70 ofFIG. 13 having the weight 74 in the back of the club head 50, and a clubhead 50 with the weight system 70 of FIG. 13 having the weight 74 in thefront of the club head 50. FIG. 22 illustrates the relative position ofthe c.g. along the y-axis and x-axis for these various club heads.

As illustrated in FIG. 23, the movement of the c.g. is illustrated basedon the construction of FIG. 16. It illustrates the movement of the c.g.along the y-axis and z-axis between a normal Titleist 904F fairway woodwithout a weight system, a club head 50 with the weight system 70 ofFIG. 16 having the weight 74 in the back of the club head 50, and a clubhead 74 with the weight system 70 of FIG. 16 having the weight 74 in thefront of the club head 50. FIG. 23 illustrates the relative position ofthe c.g. along the y-axis and z-axis for these various club heads.

As illustrated in FIG. 24, the movement of the c.g. is illustrated basedon the construction of FIG. 16. It illustrates the movement of the c.g.along the y-axis and x-axis between a normal Titleist 904F fairway woodwithout a weight system, a club head 50 with the weight system 70 ofFIG. 16 having the weight 74 in the back of the club head 50, and a clubhead 50 with the weight system 70 of FIG. 16 having the weight 74 in thefront of the club head 50. FIG. 24 illustrates the relative position ofthe c.g. along the y-axis and x-axis for these various club heads. Thelocations of the c.g. shown in FIGS. 21-24 were calculated using acommercially available CAD (computer aided design) system.

FIG. 25 of the accompanying drawings shows a perspective view of a golfclub head 250 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention. This embodiment of the present invention has one ormore cavities 206 in the sole of the club head 250 for receiving aweighted insert 208. The cavity 206 in this embodiment may generally beshown in a generally elongated cylindrical shape with an opening 211that exposes the cylindrical weighted insert 208 to the sole of the golfclub head 250. The orientation of the cavity 206 and the weighted insert208 may generally be offset at an angle from the striking face of theclub head to promote the change in the center of gravity of the clubhead 250 along two or more axis. In order to show the offset angle ofthe weighted insert 208, FIG. 26 is provided showing an exploded soleview of a golf club 250 having a weighted insert 108 in accordance withthis alternative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 26 of the accompanying drawings shows an exploded sole view of agolf club 250 having a weighted insert 208. More specifically, FIG. 26shows the cavity 206 and the weighted insert 208 aligned along an axis Othat is offset from the x-axis at an angle θ. This angle θ, similar tothe prior discussion in FIG. 19, may generally be offset from the x-axisby an angle of 0 to 90 degrees in either direction, but more preferablybetween about 0 to about 90 degrees in the positive direction, morepreferably between about 3 to about 45 degrees, and most preferablybetween about 5 to about 35 degrees all without departing from the scopeand content of the present invention. Having the axis O offset from thex-axis is beneficial to the present invention because it allows theweighted insert 208 to alter the center of gravity of the golf club headalong the x-axis and the z-axis simultaneously, depending on theorientation of the weighted insert 208. However, in order to achievethis, the weighted insert 208 must within itself, have some inherentweighting characteristics that favor such an extreme movement in thecenter of gravity.

The exploded view of the golf club 250 with the weighted insert 208shown in FIG. 26 also allows the inherent weighting characteristics ofthe weighted insert 208 to be shown. In this figure, the weighted insert208 may be further comprised of a heavy end 216, a lighter end 218, anda cap 219. The utilization of a heavy end 216 and a lighter end 218 inthis type of weighted insert 208 maximizes the bi-directionaladjustability of the elongated cylindrical weighted insert 208 to shiftthe center of gravity of the golf club head 250. In a first orientation,when the heavy end 216 is located close to the cap 219 near the toe endof the golf club head 250, the center of gravity of the golf club headis shifted forward and toe-ward relative to the neutral position; whilein a second orientation, when the heavy end is located away from the cap210 near the heel end of the golf club head 250, the center of gravityof the golf club head will be shifted rearward and heel-ward relative tothe neutral position.

Due to the nature of the orientation of the weighted insert 208 being atan orientation that is offset from the x-axis, combined with itsinternal weighting components with a heavy end 216 and a lighter end218, the length of the weighted insert 208 becomes important; as anincrease in the length of the weighted insert 208 results in a greatereffect on the center of gravity of the golf club head 250. Hence, inorder to achieve a discernible change in the center of gravity of thegolf club 250 by the change in orientation of the weighted insert 208,the length of the weighted insert 208 may generally be between about 50mm to about 100 mm, more preferably between about 60 mm to about 90 mm,even more preferably between about 70 mm to about 80 mm.

The heavy end 216 of the weighted insert 208 may generally be comprisedof a material having a relatively high density such as tungsten with adensity of greater than about 10.9 g/cm3; however numerous othermaterials may be used without departing from the scope and content ofthe present invention so long as it has a density greater than theremainder of the weighted insert 208. The lighter end 218 of theweighted insert could be made out the same tungsten material as theheavy end 216, but in a smaller volume. However, alternative materialsfor the lighter end 218 such as steel, titanium, or any other materialhaving a density greater than the central part of the weighted insert208 all without departing from the scope and content of the presentinvention. The central portion of the weighted insert 208 may generallybe juxtaposed and placed between the heavy end and the lighter end. Inorder to maximize the effects of the heavy end 216 and the lighter end218, the central portion of the weighted insert 208 may generally bemade out of a lightweight material such as carbon fiber composite,aluminum, magnesium, plastic, or any other lightweight material with adensity of less than about 2.5 g/cm3 all without departing from thescope and content of the present invention.

In the embodiment shown, the threaded cap 219 may help retain theweighted insert 208 using a compressive force as shown in thecross-sectional view shown in FIG. 27. However, in alternativeembodiments of the present invention, the cap 219 may be magnetic innature to further enhance the bond between the cap 219 and the weightedinsert 208.

In order to illustrate the inner workings of the weighted insert 208 andthe golf club 250, FIG. 27 is provided here with a cross-sectional viewof the golf club head 250 along cross-sectional line O, as shownpreviously in FIG. 26. The cross-sectional view of the golf club head250 allows the relationship between the weighted insert 208, the heavyend 216, the lighter end 218, the cap 219, and the cavity 206 to beshown in more detail. As it can be seen in FIG. 27, the cavity 206 maygenerally have a chamfered portion around its terminal end, matching thegeometries of the extremities of the heavier end 216 and the lighter end218 to allow either the heavier end 216 or the lighter end 218 to sitinside the cavity 206. Another feature worth identifying in thiscross-sectional view is the difference in the construction of the heavyend 216 and the lighter end 218. In order to create the mass differencebetween the heavy end 216 and the lighter end 218, the heavy end 216could be a dense solid piece of tungsten, while the lighter end 218could be a hollow piece of tungsten. In alternative embodiments of thepresent invention, the lighter end 218 could even be made out oflightweight material such as aluminum, steel, or any other materialhaving a density lower than tungsten all without departing from thescope and content of the present invention. In a further alternativeembodiment of the present invention lighter end 218 may even be formedout of the same piece as the remainder of the weighted insert 208without departing from the scope and content of the present invention.In order to further exaggerate the weighting effects, the centralportion of the weighted insert 208 may generally be a hollow compositetype material, as shown in the cross-sectional view in FIG. 27. Finally,FIG. 27 shows a threaded cap 219 to coincide with a threaded entryportion of the cavity 206 to secure the weighted insert 208 within thecavity 206.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the centralportion of the weighted insert 208 could have some mass properties ofits own. In one example, the central portion could have its own heavierside and a lighter side, creating even more weighting adjustments. Inone setting, the heavier side 216 could be on the same side as theheavier side of the central portion, creating an ultra-heavy side and anultra-light side to the weighted insert 208. However, in anothersetting, the heavier side 216 could be paired with the lighter side ofthe central portion, with the weighting characteristics of thecomponents cancelling each other out to create a more neutral setting.

In a further alternative embodiment of the present invention, the cap219 may contain a see through window within the “cavity of the opening”to allow the user to see the terminal surface of the weighted insert208. The window, in one exemplary embodiment, may be made out of seethrough flexi-glass, however, numerous other materials may be used toprovide a see through window without departing from the scope andcontent of the present invention. Having a see through window will allowthe orientation of the weighted insert 208 to be seen without the needto disassemble the weighted insert 208 from the cavity 206. In order toachieve this, the end surfaces of the weighted insert 208 could bepainted different colors, with each of the two different colorsindicating whether the lighter end 218 or the heavy end 216 is shown.

It should be noted that in this embodiment, the body portion of theweighted insert 208 is exposed to the external sole portion of the clubhead 250, which allows an external component such as a sleeve 213 to beused to adjust the way the club head 250 contacts a ground plane. FIG.28 of the accompanying drawings shows this exploded view of analternative embodiment of the present invention wherein an additionalsleeve 213 is added to the assembly, coinciding with the exposed portion211 of the cavity 206. The sleeve, as it can be seen, may generallycircumferentially encompass the external surface of the weighted insert208 to create the change in sole contact. In this embodiment, the sleeve213 could be a triangular shape with each edge of the triangle having adifferent angle, thus creating three different methods for the golf club250 to rest on the ground plane. However, numerous other geometries suchas a cylindrical rod, a rectangular rod, an oval rod, or any other shapewithout departing from the scope and content of the present invention solong as it is capable of creating multiple different sole contacts. In afurther alternative embodiment, the external walls of the sleeve 213could even be tapered to create more of a change in the sole contact.The creation of different sole contact planes allows the golf club headto compensate and change for differences in the loft, lie, or even theface angle of the golf club head 250.

Moving on to FIG. 29, a perspective sole view of a golf club head 250 inaccordance with a further alternative embodiment of the presentinvention is shown. More specifically, the golf club head 250 shown inthis embodiment is very similar to the golf club head 250 shown in FIGS.25-28, except that the weighted insert 208 extends through the internalcavity of the golf club head 50 without being exposed to the soleportion of the golf club head. The weighted insert, although onlyexposed at the extremities, still have a cavity 206 at one end to allowthe weighted insert to be used.

The exploded sole view of the golf club head 250 shown in FIG. 30illustrates that the current embodiment still has the weighted insertplaced along the axis O that is offset from the x-axis. The angle θ,similar to before, may generally be between about 0 to about 90 degreesin the positive direction, more preferably between about 3 to about 45degrees, and most preferably between about 5 to about 35 degrees allwithout departing from the scope and content of the present invention.To illustrate the internal geometry of this alternative embodiment, across-sectional view is shown in FIG. 31 to provide and show how theweighted insert 208 is completely contained within the walls of the clubhead 250.

FIGS. 32 and 33 shows exploded sole views of club heads 250 inaccordance with further alternative embodiments of the presentinvention. More specifically, the club heads 250 shown here maygenerally be smaller sized metalwood type club heads such as a fairwaywood or a hybrid type club heads 250. It should be noted here that theseembodiments illustrate a very important relationship between the volumeof the golf club head 250 and the angle θ of the weighted insert 208relative to the x-axis. Because the adjustment of the center of gravityof the golf club head 250 is a very specific art form, the angle θ ofplacement of the weighted insert 208 along the sole is a key factor.More specifically, the relationship between the angle θ and the volumeof the club head 250 could be quantified as an Angle to Volume Ratio,wherein the Angle to Volume Ratio is defined as the angle θ of theplacement of the weighted insert 108 divided by the volume of the clubhead 250. The current invention, may generally have an Angle to VolumeRatio of between about 0.02 degrees/cc to about 0.25 degrees/cc, morepreferably between about 0.05 degrees/cc to about 0.25 degrees/cc, mostpreferably between about 0.10 degrees/cc to about 0.20 degrees/cc.

FIG. 34 of the accompanying drawings shows an exploded view of aweighted insert 208 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention. The weighted insert 208 has a heavy end 216 piece ofthe weighted insert 208 and a light end 218 piece of the weighted insert208 being created by cylindrical pieces that removably slide around abolt 220. By reversing the orientation of the heavy end 216 piece andthe light end 218 piece, the center of gravity of the weighted insert208 could be adjusted without departing from the scope and content ofthe present invention. Needless to say, in alternative embodiments ofthe present invention there could be more than two weight members withdifferent mass properties without departing from the scope and contentof the present invention.

FIG. 35 of the accompanying drawings shows an exploded view of aweighted insert 208 in accordance with a further alternative embodimentof the present invention. The weighted insert 208 in this embodiment maybe comprised of a heavy end 216 piece and a light end 218 piece, bothfitting internally in a tube 221. Similar to the embodiment above,reversing the orientation of the heavy end 216 piece and the light end218 piece can alter the center of gravity of the weighted insert 208,which can result in change of the center of gravity of the golf clubhead in general.

FIG. 36 of the accompanying drawings shows a cross-sectional view of aweighted insert 208 in accordance with an even further alternativeembodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment of the presentinvention, the weighted insert 208 may contain a heavy end 216 piecethat is threaded externally like a screw. The external threads of theheavy end 216 piece may then engage internal threads in the tube toallow the heavy end 216 piece to provide an infinitesimal amount ofadjustment settings throughout the threaded region of the tube. Theheavy end 216 piece is rotated within the tube via a tool that engagesthe heavy end 216 piece via an opening in one side of the weightedinsert 208.

FIG. 37 of the accompanying drawings shows an exploded view of aweighted insert 208 in accordance with an even further alternativeembodiment of the present invention wherein an alternative cap 219 isused. The cap 219 in this embodiment of the present invention maycontain a pin 223 with a ball 224 at the end of the cap 219 to engage a“church key” shaped notch or slot 225. This ball and notch embodimentwill allow the cap to be centered onto the weighted insert 208 andprevent the cap from being lost during disassembly and assembly.Although FIG. 37 only shows the ball and notch in the heavy end 216portion of the weighted insert 208, the same geometry can beincorporated into the light end 218 to provide interchangeability of theorientation without departing from the scope and content of the presentinvention.

FIG. 38 of the accompanying drawings shows an exploded view of aweighted insert 208 in accordance with an even further alternativeembodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the cap 219 isretained together with the weighted insert 208 using a snap fit 226 typemechanism that hooks onto a recessed rim 227 on the weighted insert 208itself. In an alternative embodiment, the snap fit 226 could also bemade out of a detent type mechanism that prohibits the cap fromseparating from the weighted insert 208 without departing from the scopeand content of the present invention. It is worth noting that theweighted insert 208 has a recessed rim 227 at both the heavy end 216 andthe light end 218, so the cap 219 could be placed at either extremity ofthe weighted insert without departing from the scope and content of thepresent invention.

FIG. 39 of the accompanying drawings shows an exploded view of a golfclub 250 in accordance with a further alternative embodiment of thepresent invention. The weighted insert 208 in this embodiment be furthercomprised of a tube 230 to shield the weighted insert 208 from contactwith any potential debris in the cavity of the golf club head 250. Inthis embodiment the tube 230 may generally have a diameter that isslightly bigger than the diameter of the weighted insert 208, and besnap fit into the cavity 206 without departing from the scope andcontent of the present invention. However, in other embodiments, thetube 230 may also be threaded into position in the cavity 206 instead ofbeing snap fit in to provide more structural rigidity also withoutdeparting from the scope and content of the present invention.Furthermore, the tube 230 may also be glued into place without departingfrom the scope and content of the present invention.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the tube 230 maygenerally be made out of a plastic type material in order to create thisbarrier against debris without adding additional weight to the weightedinsert. However, numerous other material could be used without departingfrom the scope and content of the present invention so long as itprovides a cover for the weighted insert.

FIG. 40 provides a close up view of the tube 230 in accordance with anembodiment of the invention as shown in FIG. 39. As it can be seen, thetube 230 has a notched opening, lengthwise along the entire length ofthe tube 230. This opening allows the tube to compress and reduce itsdiameter when it is being inserted into the cavity 206 shown in FIG. 39.When the tube decompresses thereby expanding its diameter, it willgenerally snap into a specific orientation within the cavity of the golfclub head leaving the opening facing the crown portion of the golf clubhead. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the openingcould be faced towards the back or front of the golf club head topromote to help with the stress levels without departing from the scopeand content of the present invention. Having the opening of the tubefacing the crown portion of the golf club head is beneficial becausemost of the debris in the cavity of the golf club head tends to belocated towards the sole portion of the golf club head. In addition tothe debris, it is common knowledge that a type of glue is usuallyinjected into the internal cavity of the golf club head to make finaladjustments to the club head weight. This glue type material, if itcomes in contact with the weighted insert 206, may prevent it from beingmovable and interchangeable. In order to prevent this undesirableeffect, the tube 230 cover is created to prevent such a contact.

FIG. 41 of the accompanying drawings shows an enlarged partialcross-sectional view of a weighted insert 208 in accordance with afurther alternative embodiment of the present invention. In thisembodiment, instead of using a snap fit or detent mechanism to securethe cap 219 to the heavy end 216 of the weighted member 208, a clip 231is used to secure the cap 219 to the weighted insert 208.

FIG. 42 of the accompanying drawings shows an enlarged partialcross-sectional view of a weighted insert 208 in accordance with anotheralternative embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, theweighted insert is retained in the golf club head in tension rather thanin compression as all of the previous embodiments have shown. In thisembodiment, there is a slidable retainer 235 that can travel lengthwisealong the weighted insert 208 to provide a stopping point for theweighted insert 208. Once the retainer 235 is engaged, a screw can beused to secure the weighted insert in the cavity.

FIG. 43 of the accompanying drawings shows an enlarged partialcross-sectional view of a weighted insert 208 in accordance with anotherfurther alternative embodiment of the present invention. In thisembodiment of the present invention, the weighted insert 208 is neitherin tension nor compression. Rather, the weighted insert may have threadson both the heavy end 216 and the light end 218 to more securely attachthe weighted insert 208 to the golf club head.

Low friction lubricants, materials, and coatings could be added tovarious portions of the weighted inserts, caps, cavities, etc. describedherein. Some advantages might include allowing the weighted insert torotate freely within the cavity during impact between the golf club headand golf ball without affecting the locking mechanisms and minimizingthe risk of inadvertent unlocking of the weighted insert. Examples oflow friction coatings may include, for example, physical vapordeposition, teflon, molybdenum disulfide, etc.

FIG. 44 of the accompanying drawings shows a perspective view of aweighted insert 308 in accordance with another further alternativeembodiment of the present invention. FIG. 45 illustrates a cross sectionof a golf club head 350 including the weighted insert 308 of FIG. 44.FIG. 46 illustrates a perspective view of the weighted insert 308 ofFIG. 44. FIGS. 47 and 48 illustrate perspective views of a head lockingmember 330 of the golf club head 350 of FIG. 45. In this embodiment, theweighted insert 308 has a heavy end 316 and a light end 318. Theweighted insert 308 can be inserted into a cavity 306 formed in the golfclub head 350 either heavy end 316 first, as illustrated, or light end318 first. By reversing the orientation of the weighted insert 308, thecenter of gravity of the golf club head 350 can be manipulated. The golfclub head 350 can include a terminal member 320 at a terminal end 312 ofthe cavity 306 configured to receive the weighted insert 308. The golfclub head 350 can also include a head locking member 330 configured toreceive the weighted insert 308.

The weighted insert 308 can include an insert locking member 319configured to lock the weighted insert 308 in the golf club head 350.The insert locking member 319 can be configured to engage the headlocking member 330. The insert locking member 319 can include an insertlocking feature 342, as illustrated in FIG. 46. The head locking member330 can include a head locking feature 332 as illustrated in FIGS. 47and 48. The insert locking feature 342 and head locking feature 332 canbe configured to lock the weighted insert 308 in the cavity 306 of thegolf club head 350 by rotating the insert locking member 319 relative tothe head locking member 330. In a preferred embodiment, as illustratedin FIGS. 44-48, the head locking member 330 and insert locking member319 are configured to lock the weighted insert 308 with less than 180degrees of rotation of the insert locking member 319. In a morepreferred embodiment, the head locking member 330 and insert lockingmember 319 are configured to lock the weighted insert 308 with less than135 degrees of rotation. In a more preferred embodiment, the headlocking member 330 and insert locking member 319 are configured to lockthe weighted insert 308 with less than 90 degrees of rotation. In someembodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 45 and 46, the insert lockingmember 319 can abut the end of the weighted insert 308, forcing ittowards the terminal end of the cavity 306. In some embodiments, it mayreleasably engage to each end of the weighted insert 308 similar to thecap 219 as illustrated in FIG. 38. In other embodiments, the insertlocking member 319 can be affixed to the weighted insert 308. In someembodiments, the insert locking member 319 may be formed integrally withthe weighted insert 308. In some embodiments, the weighted insert caninclude an insert locking member 319 at both ends of the weighted insert308.

As illustrated in FIGS. 44, 47, and 48, the head locking feature 332 ofthe head locking member 330 includes at least one slot 334 angledrelative to a longitudinal axis of the weighted insert 308, thelongitudinal axis extending through the center and along the length ofthe weighted insert 308. The insert locking member 319, as illustratedin FIG. 46, includes at least one protrusion configured to slide withinthe slot 334. The insert locking member 319 also includes a toolengagement feature 309 configured to interact with a tool and allow auser to apply a torque to the insert locking member 309. As the insertlocking member 319 is rotated relative to the head locking member 330,the protrusion slides along the slot 334, forcing the insert lockingmember 319 to translate longitudinally towards the terminal member 320,forcing the weighted insert 308 towards the terminal end 312 of thecavity 306. Additionally, a spring 360 may be included in the cavity306. The spring 360 can be located near the terminal end 312 of thecavity 306 as illustrated in FIG. 45. In additional embodiments, thespring 360 may be located in the open side 311 of the cavity 306. Insome embodiments, the spring 360 could be located in the insert lockingmember 319. In another embodiment, the spring 360 could be located in acap. The spring 360 can be compressed as the insert locking member 319forces the weighted insert 308 towards the terminal end 312 of thecavity 306. The head locking feature 332 can include a locked positionwhich locks the weighted insert 308 in the cavity 306. As illustrated inFIGS. 47 and 48, the slot 334 can include a detent 336 such that at fullrotation of the insert locking member 319, the insert locking member 319along with the weighted insert 308 is forced away from the terminal end312 of the cavity 306 by the spring 360 a small distance, locking theprotrusion of the insert locking feature 342 into the detent 336 of theslot 334 of the head locking member 330. Another way to describe thedetent 336 would be that the slot 334 has an inflection point such thatrotation of the insert locking member 319 initially forces the insertlocking member 319 towards the terminal end 312 of the cavity 306 butonce the insert locking feature 342 passes the inflection point in theslot 334, the insert locking member 319 is forced away from the terminalend 312 of the cavity 306. The insert locking member 319 is held in thelocked position by the spring 360 forcing the insert locking feature 342into the detent 336 of the slot 334, preventing rotation of the insertlocking member 319 and thus preventing translation of the weightedinsert 308. In some embodiments, examples of springs 360 may include,coil springs, wave washer springs, conical washer springs, rubbersprings, elastomer springs, as well as combinations thereof, etc.

The terminal member 320 and/or head locking member 330 can be integratedinto various portions of the golf club head 350 which may include, forexample, the sole (as illustrated), the skirt, the crown, etc. Theterminal member 320 and/or head locking member 330 can be formedintegrally in the club head 350 or it can be formed separately andaffixed to the club head 350 as illustrated in FIG. 45. The terminalmember 320 and/or head locking member 330 could be affixed to the golfclub head 350 in a number of ways which may include, for example,welding, adhesive, threaded engagement, etc. FIG. 45 depicts theterminal member 320 and head locking member 330 incorporating malethreads which engage female threads formed in the cavity 306 of the golfclub head 350.

FIG. 49 of the accompanying drawings shows a perspective view of aweighted insert 408 in accordance with another further alternativeembodiment of the present invention. FIG. 50 illustrates a cross sectionof a golf club head 450 including the weighted insert 408 of FIG. 49.FIG. 51 illustrates a perspective view of the weighted insert 408 ofFIG. 49 including a spring 460 and centering member 462. FIG. 52illustrates a perspective view of the spring 460 and centering member462 of FIG. 51. FIG. 53 illustrates a perspective view of a spring 560.FIG. 54 illustrates a perspective view of a low friction member as wellas the spring of FIG. 53.

The weighted insert 408 includes an insert locking member 419 integratedinto each end of the weighted insert 408. This allows the weightedinsert 408 to be flipped and reinserted into the golf club head 450without the need to remove and reattach a removable insert lockingmember to the opposite end of the weighted insert 408. The head lockingmember 430 head locking feature 432 can include an additional track (notillustrated) to ensure the insert locking feature 442 can pass through,allowing the weighted insert 408 to be fully inserted into the cavity406 of the golf club head 450. In another embodiment, the head lockingmember 430 could be centrally located in the cavity 406 and insertlocking member 419 could be centrally located on the weighted insert408, allowing a single insert locking member 419 to interact with thehead locking member 430, no matter the orientation of the weightedinsert 408.

As illustrated in FIGS. 50 and 51, the cavity 406 can include a spring460 and a centering member 462. The spring 460 can function as describedin earlier embodiments. The spring 460 illustrated in FIG. 52 iscomposed of wave washers. Additionally, a centering member 462 can alsoreside in the cavity 406 to transfer the force of the spring 460 to theweighted insert 408. The centering member 462 can include a centeringfeature 464 which is pointed to help center the weighted insert 408within the cavity 406 at the terminal end 412 of the cavity 406. Thecentering member 462 can be configured to engage the tool engagementfeature 409 of the weighted insert 408. The centering member 462 can beconfigured to have a low coefficient of friction relative to either theweighted insert 408 or the spring 460, allowing the weighted insert 408to rotate relative to the golf club head 450. In other embodiments, theweighted insert 408 can be centered by the inner wall of the terminalmember of the cavity 406. As illustrated in FIGS. 53 and 54, the spring560 can be non-metallic and may be comprised of rubber, elastomer,plastic, or other compressible materials. The spring 560 may also havereliefs formed in its geometry so as to ensure it does not becomeinfinitely stiff as it is compressed inside the terminal end 412 of thecavity 406. Additionally, the weighted insert 508 and spring 560 mayhave tapered surfaces configured to engage one another when the weightedinsert 508 is inserted into the cavity 406 of the golf club head 450. Insome embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 54, a low friction member 566may be installed between the spring 560 and weighted insert 508 topromote low friction between the weighted insert 508 and spring 560,allowing the weighted insert 508 to rotate freely.

FIG. 55 of the accompanying drawings shows a perspective view of aninsert retaining member 670. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 59incorporates the terminal member 620, and head locking member 630 intoan insert retaining member 670. This allows the entire assembly to bepermanently installed in the golf club head as a single piece, reducingassembly costs. In addition to including a head locking feature 632 tolock the weighted insert 608 in place, the insert retaining member 670can include a sheath portion 672 (see FIG. 55) preventing debris and/orhot melt within the golf club head from contacting the weighted insert608. In some embodiments, the sheath portion can be made of alightweight material such as plastic and can also be made very thin. Thesheath can be multi-material in that it includes a base structuralportion with a plurality of apertures which is covered with a thinlightweight material sealing off the cavity from the remainder of thegolf club head interior. The insert retaining member can be formed froma single piece or can be formed of a plurality of pieces. The insertretaining member can be permanently adhered to the golf club head in anumber of ways which may include, for example, adhesives, welding, etc.

FIG. 56 illustrates a perspective view of a weighted insert 608 with asliding insert locking member 619. FIG. 57 illustrates a perspectiveview of a sliding insert locking member 619. FIG. 58 illustrates aperspective view of the weighted insert 608 of FIG. 56. FIG. 59illustrates a cross sectional view of the weighted insert 608 of FIG. 56installed in the insert retaining member 670 of FIG. 55. The slidinginsert locking member 619 of FIGS. 56-59 is configured to slide alongthe weighted insert 608 when the orientation of the weighted insert 608is flipped, allowing it to be located at the opening of the cavity andto engage the head locking feature 632, locking the weighted insert 608in place.

The weighted insert 608 can include anti-rotation features 644configured to engage anti-rotation features 643 on the sliding insertlocking member 619, allowing torque applied to the weighted insert 608via the tool engagement feature to be transferred to the sliding insertlocking member 619, and thus allowing the sliding insert locking member619 to rotate relative to the head locking member 630 and lock theweighted insert 608 in place. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 59,the head locking member 630 is integrated into the insert retainingmember 670 and includes head locking features 632 similar to thosedescribed above.

As illustrated in FIG. 56, the anti-rotation feature 644 of the weightedinsert 608 can include rails protruding from the weighted insert 608configured to engage the sliding insert locking member 619. Asillustrated in FIG. 57, the anti-rotation member 643 of the slidinginsert locking member 619 can include channels configured to engage therails of the weighted insert 608. In some embodiments, the channels andrails can resemble splines. In another embodiment, the roles could bereversed and the weighted insert 608 could include channels and thesliding insert locking member 619 could include rails. In addition, asillustrated in FIGS. 57 and 59, the sliding insert locking member 619can further include slide locks 680 configured to lock the slidinginsert locking member 619 at the end of the weighted insert 608. Asillustrated in FIGS. 57 and 59, the slide lock 680 can comprise one ormore deflectable arms 682, each having a shelf 684 configured to grabthe end of the weighted insert 608 once it is slid to the end of theweighted insert 608. When the user wants to slide the sliding insertlocking member 619 to the opposite end of the weighted insert 608, oncea threshold slide force is applied to the sliding insert locking member619, the deflectable arm 682 will deflect, unlocking the sliding insertlocking member 619 from the end of the weighted insert 608 and allowingit to slide towards the opposite end. The sliding insert locking member619 can include slide locks 680 on the opposite end of the slidinginsert locking member 619 configured to lock the sliding insert lockingmember 619 at the opposite end of the weighted insert 608.

FIG. 60 illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment ofthe weighted insert and sliding insert locking member of FIG. 56. FIG.61 illustrates a cross sectional view of the weighted insert 708 andsliding insert locking member 719 of FIG. 60. In the embodimentillustrated in FIGS. 60 and 61, the insert locking feature 742 of thesliding insert locking member 719 comprises threads similar to the cap219 illustrated in FIG. 38 configured to engage threads located on thehead locking member (not illustrated), as opposed to the head lockingfeatures and insert locking features described herein.

FIG. 62 illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of aweighted insert 808. FIG. 63 illustrates a perspective view ofcomponents of the weighted insert 808 of FIG. 62. FIG. 64 illustrates across sectional view of the weighted insert 808 of FIG. 62. The weightedinsert 808 illustrated in FIGS. 62-64 contains a spring 860 internally,and does not require an additional spring in the cavity of the golf clubhead. The weighted insert 808 includes a first portion 874 and a secondportion 875, the second portion 875 configured to slide longitudinallyalong the axis of the weighted insert 808, relative to the first portion874. In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 64, the weighted insert808 may further comprise a third portion 876. The first portion 874 canbe affixed to the third portion 876. The third portion 876 can include asliding bore 861 configured to slideably receive the second portion 875.The second portion 875 can be configured to slide within the slidingbore 861 of the third portion 876. Additionally, the sliding bore 861can include a spring 860, configured to force the second portion 875away from the first portion 874. Additionally, the second portion 875can include a slide stop 878, configured to limit the travel of thesecond portion 875 relative to the third portion 876 once assembled. Inan additional embodiment the first portion 874 may be formed integrallywith the third portion 876.

FIG. 65 illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of aweighted insert 908. FIG. 66 illustrates a cross sectional view of theweighted insert 908 of FIG. 65. Similar to the weighted insert 808 ofFIGS. 62-64, the weighted insert 908 of FIGS. 65 and 66 does not requirean additional spring as it is configured to decrease and increase inlength when being used in conjunction with the other head lockingfeatures and insert locking features described herein. The weightedinsert 908 of FIGS. 65 and 66 includes a first portion 974 at one end ofthe weighted insert 908 and a second portion 975 at the opposite end ofthe weighted insert 908. The weighted insert also includes a thirdportion 976 affixed to both the first portion 974 and the second portion975. The third portion 976 is configured to deform in length along thelongitudinal axis of the weighted insert 908 as the ends of the weightedinsert 908 are forced together. As illustrated in FIGS. 65 and 66, thethird portion 976 can include a spiral cut along at least a portion ofits length, allowing the third portion 978 to act as a spring 960.Additionally, the weighted insert 908 can include a fourth portion 977configured to slide within the third portion 976, preventing anydeformation that is not along the axis of the weighted insert 908, suchas buckling. In another embodiment, the fourth portion 977 could belocated around the third portion 976.

Some of the embodiments described herein require compression of eitherthe weighted insert or compression of the weighted insert along with aspring. In additional embodiments, the head locking feature and insertlocking feature may load the weighted insert in tension rather thancompression, locking the weighted insert in place. FIG. 76 illustrates aperspective view of an additional embodiment of a weighted insert 1308.FIG. 77 illustrates a cross sectional view of the weighted insert 1308of FIG. 76. The weighted insert 1308 includes a first portion 1374 atone end of the weighted insert 1308 and a second portion 1375 at theopposite end of the weighted insert 1308. The weighted insert alsoincludes a third portion 1376 affixed to both the first portion 1375 andsecond portion 1375. The third portion 1376 is configured to deform inlength along the along the longitudinal axis of the weighted insert 1308as the ends of the weighted insert 1308 are pulled apart. As illustratedin FIGS. 76 and 77, the third portion 1376 can include an accordion likestructure, acting like a spring. The weighted insert 1308 could includea fourth portion around the outside of the first portion 1374, secondportion 1375, and third portion 1376, configured to prevent anydeformation that is not along the axis of the weighted insert 1308, suchas buckling (not illustrated). In a tension loaded weighted insert suchas the weighted insert 1308 illustrated in FIGS. 76 and 77, the channelsof the head locking feature may be oriented at such an angle, thatrotating the weighted insert 1308 relative to the golf club head wouldstretch the weighted insert 1308. Additionally, the detents may beconfigured such that the tension in the weighted insert 1308 in a lockedposition helps to prevent the weighted insert 1308 from coming dislodgedfrom the detent during play. The weighted insert 1308 can also includeinsert locking features 1319, preferable at both ends of the weightedinsert 1308. The locking features 1319 can include protrusions 1342configured to interact with a head locking feature.

FIG. 67 illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of aweighted insert 1008. FIG. 68 illustrates a perspective view of aninsert retaining member 1070 configured to receive the weigh insert 1008of FIG. 67. FIG. 69 is an end view of the insert retaining member 1070of FIG. 68. FIG. 70 is a cross sectional view of the weighted insert1008 of FIG. 67 installed in the insert retaining member 1070 of FIG.68. The weighted insert 1008 is configured to rotate into a lockedposition without the need for the weighted insert 1008 to translatelongitudinally within the cavity of the golf club head. The insertlocking feature 1042 of the weighted insert 1008 includes at least oneprotrusion. As illustrated in FIG. 67, the insert locking feature 1042includes at least one pair of protrusions with a relief 1046 betweenthem. The protrusions can be shaped like a rail, extending in adirection substantially parallel to the axis of the weighted insert1008. The insert retaining member 1070 includes at least one channel1085 to receive the insert locking feature 1042 as it is installed inthe insert retaining member 1070. Additionally, the insert retainingmember 1070 includes a corresponding head locking feature 1032. The headlocking feature 1032 of the insert retaining member 1070 includes aprotrusion 1087 configured to engage the relief 1046 of the insertlocking feature 1042. The protrusion 1087 of the head locking feature1032 can be formed on a deflectable arm 1083, which deflects as theweighted insert 1008 is rotated, and then snaps back as the protrusion1087 of the head locking feature 1032 engages the relief 1046 of theinsert locking feature 1042, locking the weighted insert 1008 in thegolf club head. As illustrated in FIG. 67, the weighted insert 1008 caninclude insert locking features 1042 at each end of the weighted insert1008. In another embodiment the insert locking features 1042 may belocated centrally on the weighted insert 1008. In another embodiment,the insert locking features 1042 may be on a sliding insert lockingmember.

FIG. 71 illustrates an additional embodiment of a weighted insert 1108.FIG. 72 illustrates a perspective view of an insert retaining member1170 configured to receive the weighted insert 1108 of FIG. 71. Theweighted insert 1108 is similar to the weighted insert of FIGS. 67-70however the protrusions and reliefs of the insert locking feature 1142extend in a direction oblique to longitudinal axis of the weightedinsert 1108. Additionally, the protrusions 1187 of the head lockingfeatures 1132 are angled as well to engage the insert locking features1142.

FIG. 73 illustrates an additional embodiment of an insert retainingmember 1270. FIG. 74 illustrates an additional embodiment of a weightedinsert 1208 configured to reside in the insert retaining member 1270 ofFIG. 73. FIG. 75 illustrates a cross sectional view of the insertretaining member 1270 and weighted insert 1208 of FIGS. 73 and 74. Theweighted insert 1208 is similar to the weighted inserts of FIGS. 67-72,with a few key differences. Rather than a pair of protrusions, theinsert locking feature 1242 includes single protrusion without a relief.Additionally, the ends of the protrusions are tapered, allowing them tocontact a corresponding taper of the head locking feature 1232 of theinsert retaining member, further limiting longitudinal movement of theweighted insert 1208 inside the club head when the weighted insert 1208is in a locked position. Additionally, rather than the deflectable arms1282 of the head locking features 1232 being aligned perpendicular tothe longitudinal axis of the weighted insert 1208 like in earlierembodiments, the deflectable arms 1282 are aligned oblique to thelongitudinal axis of the weighted insert 1208 such that as the weightedinsert 1208 is rotated into a locked position, the insert lockingfeature 1242 and head locking feature 1232 not only restrict rotation ofthe weighted insert 1208 relative to the insert retaining member 1270,but also force the weighted insert 1208 towards the terminal end 1212 ofthe insert retaining member 1270. This feature further reduces thechance of the weighted insert 1208 moving within the club head once in alocked position and prevents any rattling when the club head strikes agolf ball.

In a preferred embodiment, the head locking features and insert lockingfeatures described herein are configured to lock the weighted insertwith less than 180 degrees of rotation of the insert locking member. Ina more preferred embodiment, the head locking features and insertlocking features are configured to lock the weighted insert 308 withless than 135 degrees of rotation. In a more preferred embodiment, thehead locking features and insert locking features are configured to lockthe weighted insert 308 with less than 90 degrees of rotation.Additionally, the head locking features and insert locking featuresdescribed herein could be incorporated into other embodiments, forexample replacing the threads of the cap 219 of the embodimentillustrated in FIG. 38.

In some embodiments, the weighted inserts described herein may not havea heavy end and a lighter end, but may have a CG located centrally alongtheir length. Such a neutral weighted insert could make for even more CGlocation options for the golf club head if used as an option in additionto a conventional weighted insert with a heavy end and a lighter end.

The insert locking features described and illustrated herein havegenerally been offset from the ends of the weighted insert. In someembodiments, not illustrated the insert locking features can be locatedimmediately adjacent the ends of the weighted insert. Additionally, theslots of the head locking features described and illustrated herein havegenerally allowed for locking of the weighted insert inside the golfclub head strictly via rotation of the insert locking member relative tothe golf club head. In some embodiments, not illustrated, locking orunlocking of the weighted insert can be achieved with not only rotationof the insert locking member, but also via force along the longitudinalaxis of the weighted insert exerted on the insert locking member via thetool. Additionally, the weighted inserts described and illustratedherein generally have a lightweight end and a heavy end such that theircenter of gravity is offset from their dimensional center. In additionalembodiments, the weighted inserts may not have an offset center ofgravity. The weighted insert may have two heavy ends or two light endsfor example. In additional embodiments, the insert locking membersdescribed and illustrated herein may include a seal to prevent anyfluids or particles from entering or leaving the cavity and/or golf clubhead.

One concern regarding weighted insert retention is the tendency forrepeated impacts between a golf club head and a golf ball causingvibrations in the club head which can cause the weighted insert to flexand/or rotate within the cavity. The weighted insert flexing can unloadthe locking features of the insert locking member, causing it to loosen.Additionally, the vibrations can force the insert locking member torotate relative to the golf club head via friction between the insertlocking member and the weighted insert. This rotation can cause theinsert locking member to loosen, allowing the weighted insert to rattlewithin the golf club head, or even leave the cavity of the golf clubhead if the insert locking member unlocks completely. In previousembodiments of the weighted insert, such as the one illustrated in FIGS.38 and 39, rotation of the cap forces the cap towards the weightedinsert, and the cap bottoms out on the weighted insert which iscompressed against the terminal end of the cavity. The preload force ofthe cap's threads against the threads of the golf club head istransferred against the weighted insert along the longitudinal axis ofthe weighted insert. The prescribed torque of the torque limiting toolutilized to tighten the cap results is transferred through the threadsand or alternative insert locking feature and head locking feature,resulting in a maximum longitudinal load between the cap and weightedinsert. This maximum longitudinal load can result in a high level offriction between the cap and the weighted insert. The embodimentsillustrated in FIGS. 78-83 feature a new and innovative approach toensure the weighted insert remains locked in the head until the userintends to remove the weighted insert, while withstanding many impactsof the golf club head with a golf ball.

FIG. 78 illustrates a cross section of a golf club head 1350 including aweighted insert. FIG. 79 illustrates an enlarged detail view of theopening 1311 of the cavity 1306 of the golf club head 1350 illustratedin FIG. 78. FIG. 80A illustrates a perspective view of the insertlocking member 1319 of FIG. 78. FIG. 80B illustrates an additionalperspective view of the insert locking member 1319 of FIG. 78. FIG. 81illustrates a perspective view the insert locking member 1319 and aportion of the weighted insert 1308 of FIG. 78. FIG. 82 illustrates aperspective view the insert locking member 1319, the spring 1360, thelow friction member 1366, and a portion of the weighted insert 1308 ofFIG. 78.

As illustrated in FIG. 78, one embodiment of a golf club head 1350,includes a cavity 1306 configured to receive a weighted insert 1308. Inthis embodiment, the weighted insert 1308 has a heavy end 1316 and alight end 1318. The weighted insert 1308 can be inserted into the cavity1306 of the golf club head 1350 either heavy end 1316 first, asillustrated in FIG. 78, or light end 1318 first, much like otherweighted inserts described herein. The weighted insert 1308 can includean insert locking member 1319 configured to lock the weighted insert1308 in the golf club head 1350. In one embodiment and as illustrated inFIGS. 78-82, the insert locking member 1319 can be configured toremovably couple to either end of the weighted insert 1308.

The insert locking member 1319 can include a retention mechanism 1326configured to engage either end of the weighted insert 1308, similar tothe cap 219 illustrated in FIG. 38. The weighted insert 1308 can includea circumferential external groove 1327 at each end of the weightedinsert 1308 configured to engage the retention mechanism 1326 of insertlocking member 1319. The retention mechanism 1326 can be similar to thesnap fit described earlier and illustrated in FIG. 38. The retentionmechanism 1326 can include a plurality of deflectable arms 1328, eachincluding a protrusion 1329 configured to engage the circumferentialexternal groove 1327 of the weighted insert 1308. In another embodiment,the retention mechanism could engage the weighted insert 1308 in anothermanner, such as magnetic force, friction, etc.

The golf club head 1350 can include a head locking member 1330configured to receive the weighted insert 1308 and engage the insertlocking member 1319, locking the weighted insert 1308 in the cavity 1306of the golf club head 1350. The insert locking member 1319 can includean insert locking feature 1342 configured to engage the head lockingmember 1330 and lock the weighted insert 1308 in the golf club head1350. The head locking member 1330 can include a head locking feature1332 configured to engage the insert locking feature 1342 of the insertlocking member 1319. In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 78-80,the insert locking feature 1342 can include external threads and thehead locking feature 1332 can include internal threads. Similar to thecap 219 illustrated in FIG. 38 and described above, the insert lockingmember 1319 can rotate relative to the golf club head, the threadsconverting the rotation of the insert locking member 1319 into linearmovement of the insert locking member 1319 along the longitudinal axisof the weighted insert towards the terminal end 1312 of the cavity.

The head locking member 1330 and insert locking member 1319, asillustrated in FIGS. 78-80, are configured such that the insert lockingmember can be locked in the golf club head, even if the weighted insertis not installed in the cavity 1306. The head locking member comprises ashelf 1331 configured to engage a flange 1321 of the insert lockingmember 1319. As the insert locking member 1319 is rotated into a lockedposition, the flange 1321 comes into contact with the shelf 1331, asillustrated in FIG. 79. In this embodiment, at least a portion of thelongitudinal load created by the insert locking feature 1342 engagingthe head locking feature 1332 is exerted by the insert locking memberagainst the head locking member via the flange 1321 and the shelf 1331.This design does not rely on the large maximum longitudinal load betweenthe insert locking member and weighted insert as described above,drastically reducing the tendency for the weighted insert 1308 to loosenthe insert locking member 1319 from a locked position. This designensures the preload on the insert locking feature 1342 is consistent anddoesn't vary when the golf club head 1350 impacts a ball, which cancause the insert locking member to loosen. Additionally, since thelongitudinal load between the insert locking member 1319 and theweighted insert 1308 is reduced, the amount of torque the weightedinsert 1308 can apply to the insert locking member 1319 during impactsis drastically reduced. Additionally, the insert locking member 1319 caninclude a window through which to see the end of the weighted insert1308. The weighted insert 1308 can include marking indicia on each endof the weighted insert 1308, such that a user can look through thewindow of the insert locking member 1319 and see the current orientationof the weighted insert 1308 within the golf club head 1350.Additionally, the terminal end 1312 of the cavity 1306 can also includea window (not illustrated) allowing a user to look from a toe side ofthe golf club head 1350 to identify the orientation of the weightedinsert 1308. Additionally, the window at the terminal end could beutilized in manufacturing of the golf club head. For example, anytooling utilized to create the cavity 1306 could be stabilized byanother portion of tooling which extends through the window.

A spring 1360 can be included in the cavity 1306. The spring 1360 can belocated near the opening 1311 of the cavity as illustrated in FIG. 79 ormay be located near the terminal end 1312 of the cavity 1306 asillustrated in FIG. 45. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 79,the spring 1360 can be located in the insert locking member 1319. Theinsert locking member 1319 can include an internal bore 1343 configuredto receive the spring 1360. The internal bore 1343 can also receive aportion of the weighted insert 1308 as illustrated in FIG. 79. Thespring 1360 can be compressed as the insert locking member 1319 forcesthe weighted insert 1308 towards the terminal end 1312 of the cavity1306. The spring 1360 can prevent the weighted insert 1308 from rattlingwhen the golf club head 1350 strikes a golf ball. In a preferredembodiment, the load in the spring 1360, when the insert locking member1319 is in a locked position, should be less than the longitudinalpreload created by the insert locking feature 1342. This is possible dueto the flange 1321 and shelf 1331 design described above. In someembodiments, examples of springs 1360 may include, coil springs, wavewasher springs, conical washer springs, rubber springs, elastomersprings, o-rings, as well as combinations thereof, etc. In anotherembodiment, the spring 1360 could be incorporated into the weighedinsert 1308, as illustrated for example in FIGS. 62-66.

A low friction member 1366, as illustrated in FIGS. 78, 79, and 82 canbe included in the cavity 1306 as well. The low friction member 1366 ispreferably located between the insert locking member 1319 and theweighted insert 1308, further reducing the tendency of the weightedinsert 1308 from transferring torque to the insert locking member 1319when the golf club head 1350 impacts a golf ball causing vibrations. Inone embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 79, the low friction member 1366can be located in the insert locking member 1319. The insert lockingmember 1319 can include a channel or undercut configured to retain theinsert low friction member 1366 and/or spring 1360 in the insert lockingmember 1319 (not illustrated). The low friction member 1366 can includeprotrusions configured to engage the insert locking member 1319 toretain the low friction member 1366 to channels or undercuts included inthe insert locking member 1319 (not illustrated). FIG. 83 illustrates alow friction member 1366 including a protrusion configured to engage theinsert locking member 1319 and retain the low friction member 1366 andthe spring 1360 to the insert locking member 1319.

An additional concern regarding movement and rotation of the weightedinsert 1308 within the cavity 1306 when the golf club head strikes agolf ball is abrasion of the weighted insert 1308 by the cavity 1306.Generally at least a portion of the cavity 1306 is formed integrallywith another portion of the golf club head 1350 and thus of the samemetallic material. FIG. 83 illustrates the enlarged detail view of theopening 1311 of the cavity 1306 of FIG. 79 including a circumferentialinsert 1334. FIG. 84 illustrates a perspective view of a circumferentialinsert 1334. As illustrated in FIG. 79, the cavity may include aninternal circumferential groove 1333. As illustrated in FIG. 83, acircumferential insert 1334 can be installed in the circumferentialgroove 1333. The circumferential insert 1334 is preferably formed of amaterial softer than majority of the golf club head 1350. Thecircumferential insert 1334 can be formed of plastic and can include agap 1335 in its circular shape such that the circumferential insert 1334can be compressed and installed into the circumferential groove 1333,springing to fill a majority of the circumferential groove 1333 andacting as a bearing surface for the weighted insert 1308 to contactduring impact.

FIG. 85 illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of aweighted insert. FIGS. 86A-86E illustrate cross sectional views ofembodiments of weighted inserts. The weighted inserts 1408, as describedherein, have a heavy end 1416 and a lighter end 1418. Weighted inserts1408 are reversible and intended to allow the user to manipulate thecenter of gravity of the golf club head. Due to variation in themanufacturing process and also differing preferences for the swingweightof a golf club head, a plurality of weighted inserts 1408, each having adifferent total mass, need to be constructed for the golf club headassembly technician to choose from to produce the preferred swing weightin each golf club they assemble. It is preferable to reduce the numberof parts required to create the plurality of weighted inserts 1408 inorder to reduce cost. Additionally, it is preferable to maintain thesame CG shift capabilities available to the user no matter whichweighted insert has been installed in the club.

FIGS. 86A-86E show a plurality of weighted inserts, each having adifferent mass. The plurality of weighted inserts is configured toreduce the total cost of production. The weighted insert 1408illustrated in FIG. 86A includes a lightweight member 1492 and a heavymember 1494. The lightweight member 1492 is formed of a lower densitymaterial, such as fiber reinforced plastic. It can be formed in variousprocesses which may include, for example, injection molding. The heavymember 1494 is formed of a material with a higher density than thelightweight member, which may include for example, aluminum, titanium,steel, tungsten, etc. The lightweight member 1492 is generally hollow inconstruction as illustrated in FIGS. 86A-86E.

The weighted insert 1408 illustrated in FIG. 86B is similar to theweighted insert 1408 of FIG. 86A, however the lightweight member 1492and heavy member 1494 have a slightly different construction to achievea heavier weighted insert 1408 while maintaining the same CG locationand manipulation abilities as the lighter weighted insert 1408 in FIG.86A. The weighted insert 1408 in FIG. 86C is even heavier than thoseillustrated in FIGS. 86A and 86B. The weighted insert 1408 of FIG. 86Cincludes a second heavy member 1496 within the interior of the weightedinsert 1408. The weighted insert 1408 of FIG. 86C utilizes the samelightweight member 1492 and heavy member 1494 of the weighted insert1408 of FIG. 86B. The weighted insert 1408 of FIG. 86D also utilizes thesame lightweight member 1492 and heavy member 1494 of the weightedinsert 1408 of FIG. 86B but includes a thicker second heavy member 1496.The weighted insert 1408 of FIG. 86E also utilizes the same lightweightmember 1492 and heavy member 1494 of the weighted insert 1408 of FIG.86B but includes an even thicker second heavy member 1496.

In some embodiments, the weight of each of the lightweight member 1492,heavy member 1494, and second heavy member 1496 can be varied by eitherchanging their geometry, or their material and thus density. Asillustrated in FIGS. 86C-E, the second heavy member 1496 can have ahollow bore of varying diameter. In other embodiments (not illustrated),the second heavy member 1496 may have grooves, holes, or other weightremoving features to manipulate the weight of the second heavy member1496. The second heavy member 1496, for example, could be consistent indimension throughout the set but could be aluminum in one weightedinsert, stainless steel in another weighted insert, and tungsten inanother. By reducing the part count, the weighted inserts illustrated inFIGS. 86A-86E reduces the cost of total golf club head construction andsimplifies the manufacturing process. For example, the four weightedinserts 1408 illustrated in FIGS. 86B-86E can be constructed using only5 unique pieces, one lightweight member 1492, one heavy member 1494, andthree second heavy members 1496, each second heavy member 1496 having adifferent mass. The components can then be joined together, via bonding,for example. In one possible configuration, the weighted inserts inFIGS. 86A-86E could weight, 8 grams, 10 grams, 12 grams, 14 grams, and16 grams respectively. In another possible configuration the weightedinserts in FIGS. 86A-86E could weight, 10 grams, 12 grams, 14 grams, 16grams, and 18 grams respectively

FIG. 87 illustrates a perspective view of an additional embodiment of aweighted insert 1508. FIG. 88 illustrates a front view of the weighted1508 insert of FIG. 87. FIG. 89A illustrates a cross-sectional view ofthe weighted insert 1508 of FIG. 87. FIG. 89B illustrates across-sectional view of an additional embodiment of a weighted insert1508. 89C illustrates a cross-sectional view of an additional embodimentof a weighted insert 1508. 89D illustrates a cross-sectional view of anadditional embodiment of a weighted insert 1508. FIG. 90 illustrates across-sectional view of the lightweight member 1592 of the weightedinsert 1508 of FIG. 89A. FIG. 91 illustrates a cross-sectional view ofthe heavy member 1594 of the weighted insert 1508 of FIG. 89A. FIG. 91Billustrates a cross-sectional view of an additional embodiment of theheavy member 1594 of the weighted insert 1508 of FIG. 89A. FIG. 91Cillustrates a cross-sectional view of an additional embodiment of theheavy member 1594 of the weighted insert 1508 of FIG. 89A.

The weighted insert 1508, as illustrated in FIGS. 87, 88, and 89A, 89B,and 89C include a heavy end 1516 and a lighter end 1518. As illustratedin FIG. 89A, the weighted insert 1508 can include a lightweight member1592, a heavy member 1594 and a tube member 1576 connecting thelightweight member 1592 to the heavy member 1594. As illustrated in FIG.89A, the lightweight member 1592 and heavy member 1594 are configured topartially reside within the interior of the tube member 1576. In anotherembodiment, not illustrated, the lightweight member and heavy member canbe configured to at least partially reside on an exterior of the tubemember.

In some embodiments, the lightweight member and heavy member can be madeof the same materials. In order to vary the overall weight of eachweighted insert 1508, the dimensions of the lightweight member 1592and/or heavy member 1594 can be varied. FIG. 89B illustrate, forexample, the heavy member 1594 being longer in length than thelightweight member 1592. In other embodiments, such as the weightedinsert 1508 of FIG. 89A, the lightweight member 1592 can vary inconstruction and/or materials from the heavy member 1594. In anadditional embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 89C, the lightweightmember 1592 may have a hollowed out bore 1593 while the heavy member1594 may include an extra high density insert 1595. In an additionalembodiment, much like the weighted insert 1408 illustrated in FIGS.86A-86D, the weighted insert could include a second heavy member, notillustrated in weighted insert 1508, the geometry of which could bevaried to achieve the desired mass for the weighted insert 1508.

The weighted insert 1508 of FIG. 89D is a neutral weighted insert 1508which does not have a heavy end and a lighter end as the CG is locatedat the center of the weighted insert 1508. The neutral weighted insert1508 can include a heavy member 1594 at each end as illustrated in FIG.89D, or the neutral weighted insert 1508 can include lightweight member1592 at each end, depending on what properties are required for theapplication.

The lightweight member 1592 illustrated in FIG. 90 can include anenlarged portion 1602 configured to extend beyond the end of the tubemember 1576. The lightweight member 1592 can also include a reduceddiameter portion 1604 configured to reside within the tube member 1576.In some embodiments, the outside diameter of the reduced diameterportion 1592 can be slightly less than the inside diameter of the tubemember 1576, providing an annular gap for adhesive to reside, bondingthe lightweight member 1592 to the tube member 1576. In anotherembodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 90, the outside diameter of thereduced diameter portion 1592 can be configured to substantially matchan inside diameter of the tube member 1576. The reduced diameter portion1592 can include a circumferential channel 1606 comprising an outsidediameter that is less than the outside diameter of the remainder of thereduced diameter portion 1592. The circumferential channel 1606 isconfigured to receive adhesive bonding the lightweight member 1592 tothe tube member 1576. This configuration allows for the remainder of thereduced diameter portion 1592 to accurately locate the lightweightmember 1592 within the tube member 1576 while still providing the properannular gap between the circumferential channel 1606 and the inside wallof the tube member 1576 for adhesive to effectively bond the lightweightmember 1592 to the tube member 1576. The lightweight member 1592 canalso include a hollow interior bore 1608. The hollow interior bore 1608can vary in size depending on the weight required to be placed at thelighter end 1518 of the weighted insert 1508.

The heavy member 1594 can similarly include an enlarged portion 1702 anda reduced diameter portion 1704. The heavy member 1594 can also includea circumferential channel 1706 formed in the reduced diameter portion1704, much like the lightweight member 1592. The heavy member 1594 canalso include a hollow interior bore 1708. The heavy member 1594 can beformed of a higher density material, which may include, for example,aluminum, titanium, steel, tungsten, etc. The heavy member 1594 caninclude a high density portion 1565 and an abutment member 1566. Theabutment member 1566 can be affixed to the end of the high densityportion 1565 and may, as illustrated in FIG. 91, surround at least aportion of the enlarged portion 1702. The abutment member 1566 isconfigured to abut either the terminal end of the cavity of the golfclub head or the insert locking member when the weighted insert 1508 islocked in place within the club head. In some embodiments, the abutmentmember 1566 can be formed from and share any of the material qualitiesdescribed above regarding the lightweight member 1592. The abutmentmember 1566 can be affixed to the heavy member 1594 via adhesive. Inanother embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 91B, the abutment member 1566could incorporate threads, the heavy member 1594 could incorporatecorresponding threads, and the abutment member 1566 could be affixed tothe heavy member 1594 by screwing the threads together. In anotherembodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 91C, the abutment member 1566 couldincorporate a recess, the heavy member 1594 could incorporatecorresponding protrusion, and the abutment member 1566 could be affixedto the heavy member 1594 by snapping the abutment member 1566 onto theheavy member 1594. The protrusion and recess can extend around thecircumference of both the abutment member and heavy member. In anotherembodiment, not illustrated, the abutment member 1566 could incorporatea protrusion, and the heavy member could include a corresponding recess.In additional embodiments, not illustrated, the lightweight member 1592,heavy member 1594, and tube member 1576, could each include threads,allowing the lightweight member 1592 and heavy member 1594 to beattached to the tube member 1576 via threads.

The abutment member 1566 can be formed of a lower density material,which may include, for example, fiber reinforced plastic, polymer,composite, thermoplastic, thermoset, polyethylene, polypropylene,polystyrene, polyvinyl, polyoxymethylene, polyether ether ketone, nylon,acrylic, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, delrin, acetyl, etc. Theabutment member 1566 is preferably formed from a material offeringrelatively low friction qualities against the golf club head.Additionally, the abutment member 1566 is preferably formed from amaterial including damping properties, minimizing vibration, and thusloosening of the weighted insert 1508 within the golf club head, whenthe golf club head strikes a golf ball. In some embodiments, thelightweight member can be formed of any of the lower density materialsdescribed above, or any of the higher density materials listed below.

The high density portion 1565 and/or extra high density portion 1595 ofthe heavy member may generally be comprised of a material having arelatively high density such as tungsten with a density of greater thanabout 10.9 g/cm3; however numerous other materials may be used withoutdeparting from the scope and content of the present invention so long asit has a density greater than the remainder of the weighted insert 1508.The lightweight member 1592 could be made out the same tungstenmaterial, but in a smaller volume. However, alternative materials forthe lightweight member 1592 such as steel, titanium, or any othermaterial having a density greater than the tube member of the weightedinsert all without departing from the scope and content of the presentinvention. The tube member of the weighted insert may generally be madeout of a lightweight material such as carbon fiber composite, aluminum,magnesium, plastic, or any other lightweight material with a density ofless than about 2.5 g/cm3 all without departing from the scope andcontent of the present invention.

FIG. 92 illustrates a front view of an additional embodiment of aweighted insert 1808. FIG. 93 illustrates a cross-sectional view of theweighted insert 1808 of FIG. 92. FIG. 94 illustrates an exploded view ofthe weighted insert 1808 of FIG. 92. FIG. 95 illustrates an explodedcross-sectional view of the weighted insert 1808 of FIG. 92. Much likethe embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 62-66, the weighted insert 1808 ofFIGS. 92-95 is configured to deform in length along the longitudinalaxis of the weighted insert 1808 as the ends of the weighted insert 1808are forced together. The weighted insert 1808 includes a first portion1874 at one end of the weighted insert 1808 and a second portion 1875 atthe opposite end of the weighted insert 1808. The weighted insert 1808also includes a third portion 1876 affixed to both the first portion1874 and the second portion 1875.

In this embodiment, the second portion 1875 is slideably affixed to thethird portion 1876. The second portion 1875 includes an end cap 1882 anda plunging member 1884. The third portion 1876 includes a retainingmember 1886 affixed to the end of the third portion 1876, configured toprevent the plunging member 1884, and thus the second member 1875 fromdetaching from the weighted insert 1808. The plunging member 1884 caninclude a slide stop 1878, configured to engage the retaining member1886 when the weighted insert 1808 is at its maximum length. Theplunging member 1884 and retaining member 1886 are configured to allowfor a small amount of plunging translation between the second portion1875 and the third portion 1876, and thus the first portion 1874, whichis affixed to the third portion 1876. The weighted insert 1808 alsoincludes a spring 1860 configured to force the second portion 1875 awayfrom the first portion 1874. The spring 1860 is configured to deform asthe first portion 1874 is compressed towards the second portion 1875,aiding to secure the weighted insert 1808 within the golf club head asdescribed in reference to earlier embodiments. FIGS. 92-95 alsoillustrate an insert locking member 1819 configured to engage the golfclub head and lock the weighted insert 1808 within the golf club head.As described above, examples of springs 1860 may include coil springs,wave washer springs, conical washer springs, rubber springs, elastomersprings, O-rings, as well as combinations thereof, etc. Rubber springs,such as O-rings, are preferable as they offer damping properties and canminimize the vibration of the weighted insert within the golf club head,also minimizing any tendency of the weighted insert from loosening orbecoming dislodged from the golf club head.

In describing the present technology herein, certain features that aredescribed in the context of separate implementations also can beimplemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely,various features that are described in the context of a singleimplementation also can be implemented in multiple implementationsseparately or in any suitable sub combination. Moreover, althoughfeatures may be described above as acting in certain combinations andeven initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimedcombination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and theclaimed combination may be directed to a sub combination or variation ofa sub combination.

Various modifications to the implementations described in thisdisclosure may be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and thegeneric principles defined herein may be applied to otherimplementations without departing from the spirit or scope of thisdisclosure. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to theimplementations shown herein, but are to be accorded the widest scopeconsistent with this disclosure as well as the principle and novelfeatures disclosed herein.

We claim:
 1. A golf club head comprising: a body having a face, a sole,a crown, and a skirt joining said face, sole and crown, said body havinga center of gravity; said body having a coordinate system with an x-axislocated horizontal to the club face, a y-axis located vertical to theclub face, and a z-axis located through the club face, wherein said bodycomprises a cavity; wherein said cavity comprises an open end and aterminal end, said terminal end opposite said open end; a weightedinsert, said weighted insert comprising a heavy end and a lighter end,said lighter end opposite said heavy end; wherein said weighted insertcomprises a longitudinal insert axis along a center of said weightedinsert and passing through said heavy end and said lighter end; whereinsaid cavity comprises a longitudinal cavity axis along a center of saidcavity and passing through said open end and said terminal end; whereinsaid cavity is configured to receive said weighted insert through saidopen end in both a first configuration and a second configuration;wherein said first configuration comprises said heavy end of saidweighted insert adjacent said terminal end of said cavity; wherein saidsecond configuration comprises said lighter end of said weighted insertadjacent said terminal end of said cavity; wherein said weighted insertcomprises: a heavy member located at said heavy end of said weightedinsert; a tube member affixed to said heavy member; a lightweight memberaffixed to said tube member, opposite said heavy member; and an insertlocking member configured to engage said golf club head and lock saidweighted insert in said cavity via rotation of said insert lockingmember; wherein said heavy member comprises a high density portion andan abutment member, said high density portion comprises a firstmaterial, said abutment member comprises a second material, wherein adensity of said first material is greater than a density of said secondmaterial; wherein said weighted insert and said golf club head areconfigured such that said high density portion does not contact saidgolf club head when said weighted insert is locked in said cavity;wherein rotation of said insert locking member compresses said weightedinsert between said insert locking member and said terminal end of saidcavity, locking said weighted insert in said cavity; and wherein saidsecond material has greater damping properties than said first material.2. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein said second material has alower coefficient of friction when in contact with said cavity of saidgolf club head than said first material when in contact with said cavityof said golf club head.
 3. The golf club head of claim 1, wherein saidweighted insert is compressible along said longitudinal insert axis. 4.A golf club head comprising: a body having a face, a sole, a crown, anda skirt joining said face, sole and crown, said body having a center ofgravity; said body having a coordinate system with an x-axis locatedhorizontal to the club face, a y-axis located vertical to the club face,and a z-axis located through the club face, wherein said body comprisesa cavity; wherein said cavity comprises an open end and a terminal end,said terminal end opposite said open end; a weighted insert, saidweighted insert comprising a heavy end and a lighter end, said lighterend opposite said heavy end; wherein said weighted insert comprises alongitudinal insert axis along a center of said weighted insert andpassing through said heavy end and said lighter end; wherein said cavitycomprises a longitudinal cavity axis along a center of said cavity andpassing through said open end and said terminal end; wherein said cavityis configured to receive said weighted insert through said open end inboth a first configuration and a second configuration; wherein saidfirst configuration comprises said heavy end of said weighted insertadjacent said terminal end of said cavity; wherein said secondconfiguration comprises said lighter end of said weighted insertadjacent said terminal end of said cavity; wherein said weighted insertcomprises: a heavy member located at said heavy end of said weightedinsert; a tube member affixed to said heavy member; a lightweight memberaffixed to said tube member, opposite said heavy member; and an insertlocking member configured to engage said golf club head and lock saidweighted insert in said cavity via rotation of said insert lockingmember; and wherein said heavy member comprises a high density portionand an abutment member, said high density portion comprises a firstmaterial, said abutment member comprises a second material, wherein adensity of said first material is greater than a density of said secondmaterial.
 5. The golf club head of claim 4, wherein said weighted insertand said golf club head are configured such that said high densityportion does not contact said golf club head when said weighted insertis locked in said cavity.
 6. The golf club head of claim 4, wherein saidsecond material has a lower coefficient of friction when in contact withsaid cavity of said golf club head than said first material when incontact with said cavity of said golf club head.
 7. The golf club headof claim 4, wherein said second material has greater damping propertiesthan said first material.
 8. The golf club head of claim 4, wherein saidheavy member comprises an extra high density insert, said extra highdensity insert having a higher density than said high density portion.9. The golf club head of claim 4, wherein rotation of said insertlocking member compresses said weighted insert between said insertlocking member and said terminal end of said cavity, locking saidweighted insert in said cavity.
 10. The golf club head of claim 4,wherein said second material is a polymeric material.
 11. The golf clubhead of claim 4, wherein said weighted insert is compressible along saidlongitudinal insert axis.
 12. The golf club head of claim 4, whereinrotation of said insert locking member forces said insert locking membertowards said terminal end of said cavity, deforming said weighted insertin length along said longitudinal insert axis.
 13. A golf club headcomprising: a body having a face, a sole, a crown, and a skirt joiningsaid face, sole and crown, said body having a center of gravity; saidbody having a coordinate system with an x-axis located horizontal to theclub face, a y-axis located vertical to the club face, and a z-axislocated through the club face, wherein said body comprises a cavity;wherein said cavity comprises an open end and a terminal end, saidterminal end opposite said open end; a weighted insert, said weightedinsert comprising a heavy end and a lighter end, said lighter endopposite said heavy end; wherein said weighted insert comprises alongitudinal insert axis along a center of said weighted insert andpassing through said heavy end and said lighter end; wherein said cavitycomprises a longitudinal cavity axis along a center of said cavity andpassing through said open end and said terminal end; wherein said cavityis configured to receive said weighted insert through said open end inboth a first configuration and a second configuration; wherein saidfirst configuration comprises said heavy end of said weighted insertadjacent said terminal end of said cavity; wherein said secondconfiguration comprises said lighter end of said weighted insertadjacent said terminal end of said cavity; and wherein said weightedinsert is compressible along said longitudinal insert axis.
 14. The golfclub head of claim 13, further comprising an insert locking memberconfigured to engage said golf club head and lock said weighted insertin said cavity via rotation of said insert locking member, whereinrotation of said insert locking member forces said insert locking membertowards said terminal end of said cavity, deforming the weighted insertin length along said longitudinal insert axis.
 15. The golf club head ofclaim 13, wherein said weighted insert comprises a first portion at oneend of said weighted insert and a second portion at an opposite end ofsaid weighted insert, said first portion and said second portionconnected by a third portion, wherein said second portion is slideablyaffixed to said third portion, allowing said weighted insert to deformin length when compressed.
 16. The golf club head of claim 15, whereinsaid second portion comprises an end cap affixed to a plunging memberand wherein said third portion comprises a retaining member, whereinsaid second plunging member is configured to slide along saidlongitudinal insert axis through said retaining member.
 17. The golfclub head of claim 16, wherein said weight insert further comprises aspring forcing said second portion away from said first portion.
 18. Thegolf club head of claim 17, wherein said plunging member comprises aslide stop configured to engage said retaining member and limitextension of said second portion away from said first portion.
 19. Thegolf club head of claim 17, wherein said spring is located between saidend cap and third portion.
 20. The golf club head of claim 13, whereinsaid weighted insert comprises a heavy member located at said heavy endof said weighted insert, a tube member affixed to said heavy member, anda lightweight member affixed to said tube member, opposite said heavymember; and wherein said heavy member comprises a high density portionand an abutment member, said high density portion comprises a firstmaterial, said abutment member comprises a second material, wherein adensity of said first material is greater than a density of said secondmaterial.